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•""«.»«  M     1631.M66S6 

,„.,  Songs  and  ballads  of  the  American 


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AMEEICAN  REYOLFTION. 


WITH  NOTES  AND  ILLUSTRATIONS 


FRANK    MOORE. 


"  More  solid  things  do  not  shew  the  complexion  of  the  Times  so  well,  as 
Ballads  and  LibeW    Seldex. 


NEW  YORK  : 

D.  APPLETOX  &  COMPANY,  346  &  348  BEOADWAY. 

LONDON:    16    LITTLE    BRITAIN. 


Mi^ric 


i   O  ^  { 


Entered,  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1S55,  by 
D.  APPLETON  &  COMPANY, 
in  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Court  of  the  United  States  for  the  South- 
ern District  of  New  York 


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PKEFACE 


This  volume  presents  a  selection  from  tte  nu- 
js^  merous  productions  in  verse,  which,  appeared  dur- 
^  ^  ing  the  war  of  the  American  Kevolution.  Many  of 
them  are  taken  from  the  newspapers  and  periodi- 
cal issues  of  the  time  ;  others  from  original  ballad- 
sheets  and  broadsides  ;  while  some  have  been  re- 
ceived from  the  recollections  of  a  few  surviving 
soldiers,  who  heard  and  sang  them  amid  the  trials 
r^  of  the  camp  and  field. 
^  Nearly  every  company  had  its  "  smart  one '"  or 


VI  PREFACE. 

poet,  who  beguiled  the  weariness  of  the  march  or 
the  encampment  by  his  minstrelsy,  grave  or  gay  ; 
aijd  the  imperfect  fragments  which  survive  to  us, 
provoke  our  regret  that  so  few  of  them  have  been 
preserved. 

All  that  we  can  claim  for  the  writers  of  these 
songs,  is  a  manifest  spirit  of  devotion  to  the  cause, 
and  defiance  to  its  enemies.  The  poesy  of  their 
productions  is  meagre.  They  did  not  write  for 
fame  ;  but,  in  the  language  of  one  of  the  most 
honest  and  homely  of  them,  ^^  from  a  great  desire 
to  state  the  truth,  and  their  opinion  of  it,  in  a 
quiet  way,  just  set  their  poetical  lathes  a-turning, 
and  twisted  out  ballads  and  songs  for  the  good  of 
the  common  cause." 

In  the  compilation  of  this  work,  a  few  pieces 
have  been  included  which  do  not  strictly  belong 
to  the  class  of  songs  or  ballads  ;  as  in  the  case  of 
the  "Stamp  Act  Kepeal,''  "Gentle   Shepherd," 


PREFACE.  VU 

"  Burgoyne's  Overthrow/'  etc.  ;  but  their  spirit  and 
pertinency  will^  it  is  believed,  justify  their  position 
as  illustrative  of  the  times  and  events  to  which  they 
relate,  in  common  with  the  other  material  of  the 
work.  The  brief  notes  and  illustrations  to  the  dif- 
ferent pieces  in  the  collection  which  have  been 
introduced,  are  intended  to  give,  as  far  as  practi- 
cable, accounts  of  their  authorship,  and  to  explain 
some  of  the  more  obscure  allusions  of  the  writers. 

In  conclusion  the  Editor  acknowledges  his  ob- 
ligations to  the  hbraries  of  the  New  York  Histori- 
cal Society,  of  Yale  College  and  Brown  University, 
and  especially  to  the  officers  of  these  institutions, 
for  the  facility  with  which  he  has  been  enabled  to 
make  use  of  their  valuable  collections.  To  Mr.  J. 
Carter  Brown  of  Providence,  K.  I.,  for  access  to 
his  rich  and  unique  collection  on  American  his- 
tory. To  Col.  Peter  Force  of  Washington,  for 
valuable    aid    and    suggestions.       To    Mr.    E.   B. 


Yin  PREFACE. 

CoRWiN  of  New  York,  and  the  Kev.  Dr.  K  W. 
Griswoi.d  for  sirailar  favors — and  though  last,  not 
least,  for  ready  assistance  and  encouragement,  to 
his  brother,  Mr.  Gteorge  H.  Moore,  Librarian  of 
the  New  York  Historical  Society. 

New  York,  December,  1855. 


CONTENTS. 


PAGB 

Taxation  of  America, 1 

Liberty  Tree 18 

Stamp  Act  Repeal, 22 

The  Gentle  Shepherd, 27 

The  Old  Wo>ian  taught  Wisdom, 33 

The  Liberty  Song, 36 

A  Parody  upon  a  well-known  Liberty  Song, 41 

The  Parody  Parodized, 44 

To  THE  Ladies, 48 

Castle  Island  Song, 51 

The  Taxed  Tea, 55 

Virginia  Banishing  Tea, 59 

The  Blasted  Herb, 62 

Gage's  Proclamation, 65 

Maryland  Resolves,  70 

Loyal  York, 74 

Banks  of  the  Dee, 78 


X  CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

A  Parody  on  the  "Bajtks  of  the  Dee," 81 

Liberty's  CzVLL, 83 

Alphabet  for  Little  Masters  and  Misses, 88 

The  Pennsylvania  Song, 90 

The  IrishjLAn's  Epistle  to  the  Troops  in  Boston, 92 

The  Burnlsg  of  Charlestown,  95 

Trip  to  Cambridge, 99 

AiiEKicAN  "Hearts  of  Oak," 103 

Fish  and  Tea — Anew  song  to  an  old  tunk, 106 

The  Tdies,  109 

COLLINET  AND  PhEBE, 112 

War  Song, 115 

A  Song, 118 

Off  from  Boston, 122 

A  Co^EMON  Prayer  for  the  Toies, 126 

Burrowing  Yankees, 128 

Nathan  H.\xe, 130 

Sullivan's  Island — A  new  War  Song, 135 

Independence, 139 

To  the  Commons,  141 

On  Independence, 144 

A  Ballad, 147 

Battle  of  Trenton, 150 

The  Heads,  or  the  Year  1776, 153 

The  Jerseys;  A  Parody, 156 

The  Prophetic  Egg,  160 

To  Britain, 163 

General  Sullivan's  Song, '. 165 


CONTENTS.  XI 

PAGE 

Burgoyne's  Pkoclamation,  167 

Sauatoga  Song, 176 

The  Fate  of  John  Burgoyne, 185 

Burgoyne's  0\^rthrow,  188 

The  Gamester,  191 

The  Rebels, 196" 

The  Halcyon  Days  of  Old  England, 200 

British  Light  Infantry, 204 

The  Old  Man's  Song, 206 

Battle  of  the  Kegs, 209 

The  Epilogue, 220 

To  "Washington  ;  from  the  British  Light  Infantry, 224 

An  Affair  of  Honor, 226 

Yankee  Doodle's  Expedition  to  Rhode  Island, 231 

A  Fable, 237 

Chester;  A  Hymn, 241 

Retrospect:  An  Anthem  from  Sundry  Scriptures, 243 

Lord  North's  Recantation, 244 

A  Prophecy, 247 

George  the  Third's  Soliloquy, 249 

A  Song 253 

The  Present  Age, 255 

Sir  Henry  Clinton's  Invitation  to  the  Refugees, 259 

A  New  Ballad, 262 

The  Etiquette, 265 

Siege  of  Savannah, 269 

A  New  Song, 275 

The    Recess, 278 


Xll  CONTENTS. 

PASS 

Dutch  Song, 281 

Volunteer  Boys, 285 

An  Appeal, 289 

Song  about  Charleston, 293 

OuK   Women, 296 

The  Cow  Chace, 299 

Brave  Paulding  and  the  Spt, 316 

Sergeant  Cha3ipe, 322 

To  the  Traitor  Arnold, 338 

Battle  of  King's  Mountain, 335 

New  Year's  Day,  1781, 342 

The  Soldier  at  Hosie, ,...  347 

Descent  on  Middlesex, 350 

The  Dance, 363 

CoRNWALLis  Burgoyned, 367 

The  South  Carolina, 371 

Thanksgiving  Hymn, 376 

A  Fragment, 380 

A  Sonnet  on  Disbanding  the  Arjiy, 385 

Index, 387 


SONGS  AND  BALLADS. 


%mntm  0f  ^mtxm. 


1765. 

Peter  St,  John,  the  author  of  the  following  excellent  ballad,  was 
a  native  of  Norwalk,  Connecticut.  During  the  early  struggles  of 
the  Revolution,  he  kept  a  school  in  his  native  town,  where  he  won 
much  renown  for  the  hold  principles  he  avowed  and  inculcated.  He 
wrote  many  pieces  during  the  war,  some  of  which  are  the  finest  of 
that  period.  At  a  later  time  he  composed  a  poem  entitled  the 
"  Death  of  Abel,"  in  which  are  related  "  many  things  which  might 
probably  take  place  both  before  and  after  that  barbarous  fratricide." 

AMERICAN  TAXATION.' 

While  I  relate  my  story, 

Americans  give  ear ; 
Of  Britain's  fading  glory 

You  presently  shall  hear ; 


AMERICAN    TAXATION. 

I'll  give  a  true  relation, 
Attend  to  what  I  say 

Concerning  the  taxation 
Of  North  America. 


The  cruel  lords  of  Britain, 

Who  glory  in  their  shame, 
The  project  they  have  hit  on 

They  joyfully  proclaim ; 
'Tis  what  they're  striving  after 

Our  right  to  take  away, 
And  rob  us  of  our  charter 

In  North  America. 


There  are  two  mighty  speakers, 

Who  rule  in  Parliament, 
Who  ever  have  been  seeking 

Some  mischief  to  invent ; 
'Twas  North,  and  Bute  his  father, 

The  horrid  plan  did  lay 
A  mighty  tax  to  gather 

In  North  America. 


AMERICAN    TAXATIOX. 

They  searched  the  gloomy  regions 

Of  the  infernal  pit, 
To  find  among  their  legions 

One  who  excelled  in  wit ; 
To  ask  of  him  assistance, 

Or  tell  them  how  they  may 
Subdue  without  resistance 

This  North  America. 


Old  Satan  the  arch  traitor. 

Who  rules  the  burning  lake, 
"Where  his  chief  navigator, 

Resolved  a  voyage  to  take ; 
For  the  Britannic  ocean 

He  launches  far  away, 
To  land  he  had  no  notion 

In  North  America. 


He  takes  his  seat  in  Britain, 
It  was  his  soul's  intent 

Great  George's  throne  to  sit  on. 
And  rule  the  Parliament : 


AMERICAN    TAXATION. 

His  comrades  were  pursuing 

A  diabolic  way, 
For  to  complete  the  ruin 

Of  North  America. 


He  tried  the  art  of  magic 

To  bring  his  schemes  about, 
At  length  the  gloomy  project 

He  artfully  found  out ; 
The  plan  was  long  indulged 

In  a  clandestine  way, 
But  lately  was  divulged 

In  North  America. 


These  subtle  arch-combiners 

Addressed  the  British  court. 
All  three  were  undersigners 

Of  this  obscure  report — 
There  is  a  pleasant  landscape 

That  lieth  far  away 
Beyond  the  wide  Atlantic, 

In  North  America. 


AMERICAN   TAXATION. 

There  is  a  wealthy  people, 

Who  sojourn  in  that  land,. 
Their  churches  all  with  steeples 

Most  delicately  stand ; 
Their  houses  like  the  gilly, 

Are  painted  red  and  gay : 
They  flourish  like  the  lily 

In  North  America. 


Their  land  with  milk  and  honey, 

Continually  doth  flow, 
The  want  of  food  or  money 

They  seldom  ever  know  : 
They  heap  up  golden  treasure, 

They  have  no  debts  to  pay. 
They  spend  their  time  in  pleasure 

In  North  America. 


On  turkeys,  fowls  and  fishes, 
Most  frequently  they  dine. 

With  gold  and  silver  dishes. 
Their  tables  always  shine. 


AMERICAN    TAXATION. 


They  crown  their  feasts  with  butter, 
They  eat,  and  rise  to  play ; 

In  silks  their  ladies  flutter. 
In  North  America. 


With  gold  and  silver  laces 

They  do  themselves  adorn, 
The  rubies  deck  their  faces, 

Refulgent  as  the  morn  ! 
Wine  sparkles  in  their  glasses, 

They  spend  each  happy  day 
In  merriment  and  dances 

In  North  America. 


Let  not  our  suit  afiront  you, 

When  we  address  your  throne, 
0  King,  this  wealthy  country 

And  subjects  are  your  own, 
And  you,  their  rightful  sovereign, 

They  truly  must  obey, 
You  have  a  right  to  govern 

This  North  America. 


AMERICAN    TAXATION. 

O  King,  you've  heard  the  sequel 

Of  what  we  now  subscribe, 
Is  it  not  just  and  equal 

To  tax  this  wealthy  tribe  ? 
The  question  being  asked, 

His  majesty  did  say, 
My  subjects  shall  be  taxed 

In  North  America. 


Invested  with  a  warrant, 

My  publicans  shall  go. 
The  tenth  of  all  their  current 

They  surely  shall  bestow  ; 
If  they  indulge  rebellion, 

Or  from  my  precepts  stray, 
I'll  send  my  war  battalion 

To  North  America. 


I'll  rally  all  my  forces 
By  water  and  by  land, 

My  light  dragoons  and  horses 
Shall  go  at  my  command  ; 


AMERICAN    TAXATION. 

I'll  burn  both  town  and  city, 
With  smoke  becloud  the  day, 

I'll  show  no  human  pity 
For  North  America. 


Go  on,  my  hearty  soldiers, 

You  need  not  fear  of  ill — 
There's  Hutchinson  and  Rogers,^ 

Their  functions  will  fulfil — 
They  tell  such  ample  stories, 

Believe  them  sure  we  may, 
One  half  of  them  are  tories 

In  North  America. 


My  gallant  ships  are  ready 

To  waft  you  o'er  the  flood, 
And  in  my  cause  be  steady. 

Which  is  supremely  good ; 
Go  ravage,  steal  and  plunder. 

And  you  shall  have  the  prey ; 
They  quickly  will  knock  under 

In  North  America. 


AMERICAN    TAXATION, 

The  laws  I  have  enacted, 

I  never  will  revoke, 
Although  they  are  neglected. 

My  fury  to  provoke. 
I  will  forbear  to  flatter, 

I'll  rule  the  mighty  sway, 
I'll  take  away  the  charter 

From  North  America. 


0  Greorge  !  you  are  distracted, 

You'll  by  experience  find 
The  laws  you  have  enacted 

Are  of  the  blackest  kind. 
I'll  make  a  short  digression, 

And  tell  you  by  the  way, 
We  fear  not  your  oppression, 

In  North  xlmerica. 


Our  fathers  were  distressed, 
While  in  their  native  land 

By  tyrants  were  oppressed 
As  we  do  understand  ; 


10  AMERICAN    TAXATION. 

For  freedom  and  religion 

They  were  resolved  to  stray, 

And  trace  the  desert  regions 
Of  North  America. 


Heaven  was  their  sole  protector 

While  on  the  roaring  tide, 
Kind  fortune  their  director, 

And  Providence  their  guide. 
If  I  am  not  mistaken, 

About  the  first  of  May, 
This  voyage  was  undertaken 

For  North  America. 


If  rightly  I  remember, 

This  country  to  explore, 
They  landed  in  November 

On  Plymouth's  desert  shore. 
The  savages  were  nettled. 

With  fear  they  fled  away. 
So  peaceably  they  settled 

In  North  America. 


AMERICAx\    TAXATION.  It 

We  are  their  bold  descendants, 

For  liberty  we'll  fight,' 
The  claim  to  independence 

We  challenge  as  our  right ; 
'Tis  what  kind  Heaven  gave  us. 

Who  can  it  take  away. 
O,  Heaven,  sure  will  save  us. 

In  I^orth  America. 


We  never  will  knock  under, 

0,  George  !  we  do  not  fear 
The  rattling  of  your  thunder. 

Nor  lightning  of  your  spear : 
Though  rebels  you  declare  us, 

We're  strangers  to  dismay  ; 
Therefore  you  cannot  scare  us 

In  North  America. 


To  what  you  have  commanded 
We  never  will  consent. 

Although  your  troops  are  landed 
Upon  our  continent ; 


12  AMERICAN    TAXATION. 

We'll  take  our  swords  and  muskets, 
And  march  in  dread  array, 

And  drive  the  British  red-coats 
From  North  America. 


We  have  a  bold  commander, 

Who  fears  not  sword  or  gun, 
The  second  Alexander, 

His  name  is  Washington. 
His  men  are  all  collected, 

And  ready  for  the  fray, 
To  fight  they  are  directed 

For  North  America. 


We've  Greene  and  Gates  and  Putnam 

To  manage  in  the  field, 
A  gallant  train  of  footmen, 

Who'd  rather  die  than  yield ; 
A  stately  troop  of  horsemen 

Train'd  in  a  martial  way, 
For  to  augment  our  forces 

In  North  America. 


AMERICAN    TAXATION.  13 

Proud  George,  you  are  engaged 

All  in  a  dirty  cause, 
A  cruel  war  have  waged 

Repugnant  to  all  laws. 
Go  tell  the  savage  nations 

You're  cruder  than  they. 
To  fight  your  own  relations 

In  North  America. 


Ten  millions  you've  expended, 

And  twice  ten  millions  more ; 
Our  riches,  you  intended 

Should  pay  the  mighty  score. 
Who  now  will  stand  your  sponsor, 

Your  charges  to  defray  ? 
For  sure  you  cannot  conquer 

This  North  America. 


I'll  tell  you,  George,  in  metre, 
If  you'll  attend  awhile ; 

We've  forced  your  bold  Sir  Peter 
From  Sullivan's  fair  isle. 


14  AMERICAN    TAXATION. 

At  Monmouth,  too,  we  gained 
The  honors  of  the  day — 

The  victory  we  obtained 
For  North  America. 


Surely  we  were  your  betters 

Hard  by  the  Brandywine ; 
We  laid  him  fast  in  fetters 

"Whose  name  was  John  Burgoyne  ; 
We  made  your  Howe  to  tremble 

With  terror  and  dismay ; 
True  heroes  we  resemble. 

In  North  America. 


Confusion  to  the  tories, 

That  black  infernal  name. 
In  which  Great  Britain  glories, 

For  ever  to  her  shame ; 
We'll  send  each  foul  revolter 

To  smutty  Africa, 
Or  noose  him  in  a  halter, 

In  North  America. 


AIIERICAN    TAXATION.  15 

A  health  to  our  brave  footmen, 

Who  handle  sword  and  gun, 
To  Greene  and  Grates  and  Putnam 

And  conquering  Washington ; 
Their  names  be  wrote  in  letters 

Which  never  will  decay, 
While  sun  and  moon  do  glitter 

On  North  America. 


Success  unto  our  allies 

In  Holland,  France  and  Spain, 
Who  man  their  ships  and  galleys, 

Our  freedom  to  maintain ; 
May  they  subdue  the  rangers 

Of  proud  Britannia, 
And  drive  them  from  their  anchors 

In  North  America. 


Success  unto  the  Congress 
Of  these  United  States, 

Who  glory  in  the  conquests 
Of  Washington  and  Gates ; 


16  AMERICAN    TAXATION. 

To  all,  both  land  and  seamc: 
Who  glorj  in  the  day 

When  we  shall  all  be  freemen 
In  North  America. 

Success  to  legislation, 

That  rules  with  gentle  hand, 
To  trade  and  navigation, 

By  water  and  by  land. 
May  all  with  one  opinion 

Our  wholesome  laws  obey, 
Throughout  this  vast  dominion 

Of  North  America. 


^  "  Stamp  Act."  On  Monday,  the  8th  day  of  April,  1 765,  the  ship 
Edward  arrived  at  New  York,  bringing  the  "  terrible  "  news  of  the 
passage  of  the  Stamp  Act.  The  people  immediately  declared  their 
determination  to  resist  it,  and  the  newspapers  of  the  day  declaimed 
against  it,  saying  "  the  account  of  these  resolves  must  make  the  ears 
of  everj'  American,  who  conceives  himself  to  be  a  freeman,  accord- 
ing to  the  British  constitution,  to  tingle,  and  fill  him  with  aston- 
ishment." "  The  whole  of  the  act  is  so  artfully  contrived  and  so 
cautiously  guarded,  that  there  is  no  way  to  elude  the  design  of  it, 
but  by  rejecting  the  whole  as  an  unconstitutional  attempt  upon  our 
liberties,  and  by  nobly  opposing  every  effort  that  may  be  made  to 
put  it  in  execution." 

^  "  Therms  Hutchinson  and  Rogers.  Thisprobably  refers  to  Jere- 
mi'.ih  Dummer  Rogers,   one  of  the  barristers   and  attorneys  who 


AMERICAN    TAXATION.  17 


were  addresser^  of  Governor  Hutchinson,  on  his  departure  for  Eng- 
land in  1774.  After  the  battle  of  Breed's  Hill,  he  took  refuge  in 
Boston,  and  was  appointed  commissary  to  the  royal  troops  that  con- 
tinued to  occupy  Charlestown.  At  the  evacuation  of  Boston  in  1776, 
he  accompanied  the  royal  anxiy  to  Halifax,  where  he  died  in  1784. 

tSabine^s  Araer.  Loyalists. 

'  For  Liberty  veHljigU.  "  Liberty,  Property,  and  No  Stamps,"  was 
"  the  united  voice  of  all  His  Majesty's  free  and  loyal  subjects  in 
America."  The  following  verses  appeared  during  the  excitement 
caused  by  the  "  odious  act,"  accompanied  with  the  remark  that  "the 
stanzas  are  indeed  not  very  poetical ;  but  there  is  no  doubt  the  zeal 
of  the  author  for  the  cause  of  liberty  will  atone  for  publishing  the 
laudable  attempts  of  an  unpractised  muse." 


Cursed  be  the  man  who  e'er  shall  raise 

His  sacrilegious  hand, 
To  drive  fair  liberty,  our  praise  ! 

From  his  own  native  land. 

O  may  his  memory  never  die, 

By  future  ages  curst ; 
But  live  to  lasting  infamy. 

Branded  of  traytor's  worth. 

But  happy  !   happy  !   h;ippy  they, 
.  Who  in  their  country's  cause 
Shall- cast  reluctant  fear  away, 
Immortal  in  applause  I 

Who  with  their  conscious  virtue  girt, 

Shan't  dread  oppression's  voice  ; 
But  boldly  dare  those  rights  t'  assert. 

In  which  all  men  rejoice. 

ffolfs  Gazette,  No.  1169. 


f  ikrtji  mt 


1765. 

This  beautiful  ballad  was  written  by  Thomas  Paine,  the  author 
of  "  The  Age  of  Reason,"  and  published  in  the  Pennsylvania  Maga- 
zine of  July,  1775,  while  he  was  editor  of  that  periodical.  He 
composed  and  published  many  songs  and  elegies  during  his  connec- 
tion with  the  Magazine.  Among  them  "  The  Death  of  Wolfe,  on 
the  plains  of  Abraham,"  is  uncommonly  pathetic  and  graceful. 


LIBERTY  TREE. 

In  a  chariot  of  light  from  the  regions  of  day, 

The  Goddess  of  Liberty  came  ; 
Ten  thousand  celestials  directed  the  way, 

And  hither  conducted  the  dame. 
A  fair  budding  branch  from  the  gardens  above, 

Where  millions  with  millions  agree, 
She  brought  in  her  hand  as  a  pledge  of  her  love. 

And  the  plant  she  named  Liberty  Tree.^ 


LIBERTY    TREE.  19 

The  celestial  exotic  struck  deep  in  the  ground, 

Like  a  native  it  flourish'd  and  bore  ; 
The  fame  of  its  fruit  drew  the  nations  around, 

To  seek  out  this  peaceable  shore. 
Unmindful  of  names  or  distinctions  they  came, 

For  freemen  like  brothers  agree ; 
With  one  spirit  endued,  they  one  friendship  pursued. 

And  their  temple  was  Liheriy  Tree. 


Beneath  this  fair  tree,  like  the  patriarchs  of  old, 

Their  bread  in  contentment  they  ate 
Unvex'd  with  the  troubles  of  silver  and  gold. 

The  cares  of  the  grand  and  the  great. 
With  timber  and  tar  they  Old  England  supply'd. 

And  supported  her  pow'r  on  the  sea ; 
Her  battles  they  fought,  without  getting  a  groat. 

For  the  honor  of  Liberty  Tree. 


But  hear,  0  ye  swains,  'tis  a  tale  most  profane, 

How  all  the  tyrannical  powers. 
Kings,  Commons  and  Lords,  are  uniting  amain. 

To  cut  down  this  guardian  of  ours ; 


20  LIBERTY    TREE. 

From  the  east  to  the  west  blow  the  trumpet  to  arms, 
Thro'  the  land  let  the  sound  of  it  flee, 

Let  the  far  and  the  near,  all  unite  with  a  cheer. 
In  defence  of  our  Liboiy  Tree. 


^  Libei'iy  Tree.  During  the  Stamp  Act  excitement  there  arose  a 
practice  of  signifying  public  sentiment  in  a  very  effectual  way; 
though  without  any  responsible  agent,  unless  the  inanimate  Liberty 
Tree  may  be  so  considered.  This  tree  was  a  majestic  elm  that  stood 
in  front  of  a  house  opposite  the  Boylston  market,  on  the  edge  of  the 
"  High  street,"  in  the  town  of  Boston.  On  the  14:th  of  August, 
1765,  an  effigy  representing  Andrew  Oliver,  a  gentleman  ap- 
pointed to  distribute  the  stamps,  was  found  hanging  upon  this 
tree,  vnth.  a  paper  before  it,  on  which  was  written  in  large  characters, 

"  Fair  freedoms  glorious  cause  Tve  meanly  quitted, 
For  the  sake  of  pelf; 
But  ah  !  the  Devil  has  me  outwitted, 
And  instead  of  stamping  others,  I've  hang' J  myself. 

"  P.  S.     Whoever  takes  this  down  is  an  enemy  to  his  country. ' 
On  the  right  arm  was  written  "  A.  0."  and  on  the  left, 

••  What  greater  pleasure  can  there  be, 
Than  to  see  a  stamp  man  hanging  on  a  tree !  "' 

On  another  part  of  the  tree  a  hoot  was  suspended  :  the  emblem 
of  the  Earl  of  Bute,  first  Lord  of  the  Treasury,  from  which  the 
devil,  with  the  Stamp  Act  in  his  hand,  was  looking  out.  Chief 
Justice  (afterwards  governor)  Hutchinson,  directed  the  shei'iff  to 
remove  this  exhibition,  but  Ms  deputies,  from  a  fear  of  the  populnr 
feeling,  declined.  In  the  evening  the  figures  were  taken  down  by 
the  people  and  carried  in  procession  through  the  streets.  After 
demolishing  the  stamp-olHce,  in  State  street,  they  proceeded  to  Fort 


LIBERTY    TREE.  21 

Hill,  where  a  bonfire  was  made  of  the  pageantry  in  sight  of  Mr. 
Oliver's  house.  It  being  intimated  to  Mr.  Oliver  that  it  would  con- 
duce to  the  quiet  of  the  public,  if  he  would  go  to  the  tree  and 
openly  resign  his  commission,  he  appeared  the  next  day,  and  declared, 
in  the  presence  of  a  large  concourse  of  people,  that  he  would  not 
continue  in  oiBce,  It  was  thenceforward  called  the  Liberty  Tree,  and 
the  following  inscription  was  placed  upon  it,  "  This  tree  was  planted  in 
the  year  1614,  and  pruned  hy  the  order  of  the  Sons  of  Liberty,  February 
14r,  1766."  On  future  occasions  there  was  seldom  any  excitement  on 
political  subjects,  without  some  evidence  of  it  appearing  on  this  tree. 
Whenever  obnoxious  offices  were  to  be  resigned  or  agreements  for 
patriotic  purposes  entered  into,  the  parties  were  notified  to  appear  at 
the  tree,  "  where  they  always  found  pens  and  paper,  and  a  numerous 
crowd  of  witnesses,  though  the  genius  of  the  tree  was  invisible. 
When  the  British  army  took  possession  of  Boston,  in  1774,  Liberty  Tree 
fell  a  victim  to  their  vengeance,  or  to  that  of  the  persons  to  whom 
its  shade  had  been  disagreeable."  Liberty  Trees  were  consecrated 
in  Charlestown,  Lexington  and  Roxbury,  Mass.,  and  also  in  Charles- 
ton, S.  C,  Newport  and  Providence,  R.  I. — Tudor' s  Life  of  Otis 


%\t  gl^pal 


1766. 

The  Stamp  Act  was  passed  on  the  tenth  of  January,  1765,  and 
repealed  on  the  twenty-second  of  February,  of  the  next  year.  The 
news  of  its  repeal  was  hailed  with  joy.  Bonfires  illuminated  the 
hills,  and  the  voice  of  the  people  throughout  the  country  united  in 
one  earnest  display  of  exultation  and  loyalty.  j\Iany  pieces,  both  in 
prose  and  metre,  appeared  at  the  time,  celebrating  the  occasion.  The 
following  is  declared,  in  the  papers  of  the  day,  to  have  been  spoken 
at  "  a  mirthful  celebration  of  the  free  inhabitants  of  Northampton, 
Virginia." 

STAMP  ACT  REPEAL. 

In  Greece  and  Rome  renowned  for  art  and  arms, 

Whose  every  bosom  felt  fair  Freedom's  charms, 
Those  manly  breasts  which  generous  ardor  fired, 
When  public  weal  their  swords  or  care  required ; 
When  peace  abroad  their  conquering  arms  procured, 
At  home,  when  wisdom.  Liberty  secured: 


STAMP    ACT    REPEAL.  23 

Greatly  unbending  o'er  the  social  bowl, 
Indulged  the  transports  of  a  genial  soul. 
So  we,  nor  second  to  those  sons  of  Fame, 
In  love  of  freedom,  tho'  of  humbler  name ; 
Or  dauntless  courage,  bravely  to  oppose 
Domestic  tyranny,  or  foreign  foes ; — 
We,  who  far  foremost  lierey  a  virtuous  few, 
Dare  to  our  country  and  ourselves  be  true ; 
Who  dare,  in  spite  of  ev'ry  venal  frown, 
Assert  our  rights,  and  lawless  power  disown  ; 
Spite  of  each  parasite,  each  cringing  slave, 
Each  cautious  dastard,  each  oppressive  knave ; 
Each  gibing  Ass,  ihat  7^eptile  of  an  hour, 
The  supercilious  pimp  of  abject  slaves  in  power; 
Spite  of  those  empty  boasters,  who  conceal 
Their  coward  fear  with  circumspection's  veil, 
Are  met,  to  celebrate  in  festive  mirth 
The  day  that  gives  our  second  freedom  birth ; 
That  tells  us,  Britain's  Grenvilles  never  more 
Shall  dare  usurp  unjust,  illegal  power, 
Or  threat  ^meHca's  free  sons  with  chains, 
While  the  least  spark  of  ancient  fire  remains ; 
While  records  bid  the  virtuous  sons  admire 
The  godlike  acts  of  each  intrepid  sire. 


24  STAMP    ACT    REPEAL. 

Exult  America  !  each  dauntless  son 
Will  ever  keep  fair  Liberty  their  own ; 
Will  base  submission,  servile  fear  despise, 
And  Freedom's  substance,  not  her  shadoiv  prize. 
Triumph  America  !  thy  patriot  voice 
Has  made  the  greatest  of  mankind  rejoice, 
Immortal  Pitt  ! — 0  ever  glorious  name  ! 
Far,  far  unequalled  in  the  rolls  of  fame  ! 
What  breast,  for  virtue  is  by  all  approved, 
And  freedom  even  by  Asia's  slpves  beloved, — 
What  breast  but  glows  with  gratitude  to  thee. 
Boast  of  mankind,  great  prop  of  Liberty ! 
To  thee,  the  best  of  parents  and  of  friends, 
America  with  grateful  homage  bends, 
Her  thanks,  her  love,  unable  to  express, 
To  thee,  great  patron  of  her  happiness. 
Raised  by  thy  hand,  beneath  thy  guardian  care, 
Luxuriant  blooms  adorn  her  vernal  year ; 
And,  when  rapacious  harpies  would  devour 
The  infant  fruit,  and  blast  the  tender  flower. 
Shielded  by  thee,  she  mocks  the  abortive  wiles ; 
Beneath  thy  shade,  again  her  verdure  smiles. 
Would  'twere  in  pity  to  mankind  decreed, 
That  still  a  Pitt  should  to  a  Pitt  succeed : 


STAMP    ACT    REPEAL.  25 

When  proud  oppression  would  subvert  the  laws. 
That  still  a  Camden  should  defend  the  cause. 
Nor  let's  forget  the  gallant  Barre's  merit, 
His  Tully's  periods  and  his  Cato's  spirit ; 
His,  too,  an  honest  independent  heart, 
Where  fear,  nor  fraud,  nor  avarice  have  part ; 
Or  generous  Meredith,  our  worthy  friend, 
The  first  our  injured  freedom  to  defend ; 
Who  nobly,  not  by  powerful  wrath  deterred, 
Our  just  remonstrance  and  complaints  preferred. 

Proceed,  great  names  !  your  mighty  influence  join, 
Your  country's  arts,  and  policies  refine  : 
Assist  great  Conway,  and  reform  the  state; 
Bid  peaceful  commerce  reassume  her  seat  ; 
Bid  British  navies  whiten  ev'ry  coast. 
And  British  freedom  ev'ry  country  boast. 
Let  us  then,  emulous  of  each  great  name 
Conspicuous  in  the  ancient  page  of  fame. 
Resolve,  that  freedom  to  our  sons  be  sped, 
Not  worse  than  when  our  valiant  fathers  bled : 
Emerging  glorious  from  our  late  distress. 
Let  ev'ry  bosom  hail  returning  peace  : 
This  day  let  nought  but  jocund  mirth  employ. 

Relax  each  brow,  and  give  a  loose  to  joy. 

2 


2^  STAMP    ACT    REPEAL. 

And  you,  ye  fair,  on  whom  our  hopes  depend, 
Our  future  fame  and  empire  to  extend ; 
Whose  fruitful  beds  will  dauntless  myriads  yield, 
To  fight  for  freedom  in  some  future  field ; 
Resign  each  fear. 

To-day,  let  gladness  beam  in  every  face, 
Soften  each  smile  and  brighten  every  grace ; 
While  the  glad  roofs  with  lofty  notes  resound, 
With  grace  harmonious  move  the  mazy  round. 
Make  our  hearts  feel  the  long-foro-otten  fire 
Wake  into  flame  each  spark  of  soft  desire. 
Too  long  indignant  tumults  and  alarms 
Have  made  us  heedless  of  your  lovely  charms : 
But,  now,  beneath  the  downy  wings  of  peace, 
With  freedom  blest,  our  care  shall  be  to  please ; 
Each  day  the  genial  pleasure  to  improve. 
And  add  new  sweetness  to  connubial  love. 


%\t  §mtk  SkjjbtrJr. 


1766. 

The  incident  which  gave  rise  to  the  following  satirical  parody  of 
Pope's  second  pastoral,  occurred  during  the  debates  in  Parliament 
early  in  the  year  1766,  which  took  place  on  occasion  of  the  repeal 
of  the  famous  Cider-tax,  a  measure  which  gave  to  the  inhabitants  of 
the  cider-counties  a  "  taste  of  the  same  pleasure,  which  their  breth- 
ren in  America  about  the  same  time  enjoyed"  in  the  repeal  of  the 
Stamp  Act.  George  Grenville,  then  leader  in  the  Commons,  came 
to  the  rescue  of  Bute,  Chancellor  of  the  Exchequer,  and  spoke 
strongly  on  his  favorite  theme,  the  profusion  with  which  the  late 
war  had  been  carried  on.  That  profusion,  he  said,  had  made  taxes 
necessary.  He  called  on  the  gentleman  opposite  to  him  to  say  where 
they  would  have  a  tax  laid,  anrl  dwelt  on  this  topic  with  his  usual 
prolixity.  "  Let  them  tell  me  where,"  he  repeated  in  a  monotonous 
and  somewhat  fretful  tone.  "  I  say,  sir,  let  them  tell  me  where. 
I  repeat  it,  sir,  I  am  entitled  to  say  to  them.  Tell  me  where."  Un- 
luckily for  him,  Pitt  had  come  down  to  the  House  that  night,  and 
Had  been  bitterly  provoked  by  the  reflections  thrown  on  the  war. 
He  revenged  himself  by  murmuring  in  a  whine  resembling  Gren- 


28  THE    GENTLE    SHEPHERD. 

ville's,  a  line  of  a  well-known  song,  "  Gentle  Shepherd,  tell  me 
where."  "If,"  cried  GrenviUe,  "  gentlemen  are  to  be  treated  in  this 
way — "  Pitt,  as  was  his  fashion,  when  he  meant  to  mark  extreme 
contempt,  rose  dehberately,  made  his  how,  and  walked  out  of  the 
House,  leaving  his  brother-in-law  in  convulsions  of  rage,  and  every 
body  else  in  convulsions  of  laughter.  It  was  long  before  Gren%'ille 
lost  the  nickname  of  "  Gentle  Shepherd."^ 

THE  GENTLE  SHEPHERD. 

A  Gentle  Shepherd — that's  his  proper  name: — 
Retired  to  Stow,  far  distant  from  the  Thame ; 
Where  dancing  fishes  in  the  basin  play'd, 
And  crowded  columns  form'd  a  marble  shade : 
There,  while  he  mourn'd  by  streams  that  never  flow, 
The  statues  round  a  dumb  compassion  show ; 
The  worthies  listen'd  in  each  sculptur'd  hall  ; 
My  Lord,  consenting,  sat  and  heard  it  all. 

Ye  stubborn  York,  ye  fierce  New  England  crew, 
Free  from  Excise,  but  not  from  Customs  too, 
To  you  I  mourn,  nor  to  the  deaf  I  sing, 
Your  woods  shall  answer,  and  your  cities  ring. 
Quebec  and  Georgia,  my  stamp  duties  pay ; 
Why  are  you  prouder,  and  more  hard  than  they  ? 


THE    GENTLE    SHEPHERD.  29 

The  gay  Creoles,  with  my  new  tax  agree, 
They  parch'd  by  heat,  and  I  inflam'd  by  thee; 
The  sultry  Sirius  burns  their  sugar-canes, 
While  in  thy  heart  a  wholesome  winter  reigns. 


Where  stray  ye,  members,  in  what  lane  or  grove, 
While  to  enforce  the  act  I  hopeless  move  ? 

In  those  fair  rooms  where  Royal  G resides, 

Or  where  the  Cockpit's  ample  hall  divides, 
As  in  the  gilded  sconce  I  view  my  face, 
No  rising  blushes  stain  the  faithful  glass ; 
But  since  my  figure  pleases  there  no  more, 
I  shun  the  levee  which  I  sought  before. 
Once  I  was  skill'd  in  every  fund  that  went, 
From  India  bonds  to  humble  cent  per  cent. 
Ah,  G-entle  Shepherd,  what  avails  thy  skill 
To  frame  a  tax  for  D — w — 11  to  repeal  ? 

Let proud  preside  at  C 1  B d, 

Or  wily  H — 1 — d  still  desire  to  hoard ; 
But  in  the  Treasury  let  me  spend  my  days, 
x\nd  load  the  sinking  fund  a  thousand  ways. 

That  wand  was  mine,  which  B ,  with  panting  breath, 

Into  my  hands,  resigning,  did  bequeath : 


30  THE    GENTLE    SHEPHERD. 

He  said,  G G y le,  take  this  rod,  the  same 

That  to  the  cider  counties  taught  my  name ; 
But  R — k — ham  may  sway  the  wand  for  me, 
Since  I'm  despised  and  disgrac'd  by  thee. 
Oh !  were  I  made,  by  some  transforming  power, 

The  smooth-tongued  P that  speaks  in  yonder  bower, 

Then  might  my  voice  the  listening  ears  employ, 
And  I,  the  pension  he  receives,  enjoy. 

And  yet  my  speeches  pleased  the  Tory  throng, 
Rough  R — gby  grinn'd,  and  N — 1 — n  prais'd  my  song ; 
The  Cits,  while  Bow  church  bells  forgot  to  ring, 
In  milk  white  wigs,  their  kind  addresses  bring. 
But  their  addresses  are  preferred  in  vain. 

On  P 1  their  thanks  are  now  bestow'd  again  : 

For  him  the  richest  boxes  are  designed, 
And  in  one  parchment  all  their  freedom's  join'd. 
Accept  their  wreaths,  allow  your  partners  none. 
Claim  all  their  praise  as  due  to  you  alone. 

See  what  strange  things  in  the  repeal  appear; 
Discordant  Earls  have  form'd  a  union  here : 

In  opposition  B and  T — p — e  join. 

And  wicked  Twitcher*  with  good . 

Come,  matchless  Jemmy !  bless  the  cool  retreats. 
When  Peers  from  voting  quit  their  scarlet  seats ; 


THE    GENTLE    SHEPHERD.  81 

When  weary  Commons  leave  the  sultry  town. 
And,  droAYn'd  with  debts,  to  finger  rents  go  down. 
This  harmless  grove  no  lurking  bailiff  hides, 
But  in  my  breast  the  serpent  rage  abides. 
Oh,  how  I  long  with  you  to  pass  my  days, 
Drink  our  own  healths,  and  sound  each  other's  praise ; 
Your  praise  the  press  shall  bear  through  all  the  town, 
And  evening  posts  from  London  waft  it  down  : 
But  would  you  write,  and  rival  Anti's  strain, 
The  wondering  mob  his  lies  would  read  again ; 
The  moving  carman  hear  the  powerful  call, 
And  pots  of  beer  hang  listening  in  their  fall. 

But  see,  the  ladies  shun  the  noontide  air, 
And  hungry  Lords  to  dinner  fast  repair : 
At  table  all  to  places  fix'd  resort — 
Ye  gods,  and  is  there  then  no  place  at  court  ? 
But  soon  the  sun  with  milder  rays  descends 
To  western  climes,  where  my  stamp  duty  ends : 
On  my  poor  effigy^  their  furies  prey, 
By  night  they  burn  me,  as  they  hang  by  day.  * 

^  Earl  of  Chatham ;  an  Essay  bj  Thos.  Babington  Macaulay, 
1844. 

"^  And  wicked  Ticitcher.  Lord  Sandwich  was  universally  known 
by  the  sobriquet  of  "Jemmy  Twitcher." 

*  On  my  poor  effigy.     Effigies  of  the  different  members  of  the  Min- 


32 


THE    GENTLE    SHEPHERD. 


istrj  were  cai-ted  through  the  principal  places  in  the  Colonies,  to 
conspicuous  situations,  and  there  burned.  The  people  could  not  de- 
grade such  "  pervei-ters  of  the  public  weal"  sufficiently.  Epigrams, 
pasquinades  and  scumlous  verses  appeared  at  every  comer  in 
"  flaming  capitals,"  and  Britain's  dishonor  was  published  from  the 
pulpit.  The  following  appeared,  suspended  upon  Liberty  Tree,  during 
Grenville's  official  career : 

"  Pitt,  the  supporter  of  Liberty  and  the  terror  of  tyrants." 


"To  Bute  ana  Grenville,  mark  tlie  event. 
Both  heaven  and  earth  are  foes ; 
"While  curses  on  each  wretch  are  sent 
By  every  wind  that  blows."' 

God  save  the  King. 


%\t  ®li  Mmm  faugljt  MiBhrn. 


1767. 

The  ballad  entitled  "  The  World  Tiirned  Upside  Down,  or,  The 
Old  Woman  Taught  Wisdom,"  was  published,  originally,  in  the  Gen- 
tleman's Magazine,  and  afterwards  on  a  music-sheet,  set  to  the  tune, 
"DerrjDown."  The  anon;)Tnous  author,  says,  it  is  "an  humble 
attempt  to  reconcile  the  parent  and  her  children,  made  by  a  peace- 
maker to  Great  Britain  and  her  Colonies." 


THE  WORLD  TURNED  UPSIDE  DOWN. 

GrooDY  Bull  and  lier  daughter  together  fell  out, 

Both  squabbled,  and  wrangled,  and  made  a rout, 

But  the  cause  of  the  quarrel  remains  to  be  told, 
Then  lend  both  your  ears,  and  a  tale  I'll  unfold. 

The  old  lady,  it  seems,  took  a  freak  in  her  head. 
That  her  daughter,  grown  woman,  might  earn  her  own 
bread : 
2* 


34 


THE    WORLD    TURNED    UPSIDE    DOWN. 


Self-applauding  her  scheme,  she  was  ready  to  dance  5 
But  we're  often  too  sanguine  in  what  we  advance. 


For  mark  the  event ;  thus  by  fortune  we're  crossed, 
Nor  should  people  reckon  without  their  good  host ; 
The  daughter  was  sulky,  and  wouldn't  come  to, 
And  pray,  what  in  this  case  could  the  old  woman  do  ? 

In  vain  did  the  matron  hold  forth  in  the  cause. 
That  the  young  one  was  able  ;  her  duty,  the  laws  ; 
Ingratitude  vile,  disobedience  far  worse ; 
But  she  might  e'en  as  well  sung  psalms  to  a  horse. 

Young,  froward,  and  sullen,  and  vain  of  her  beauty, 
She  tartly  replied,  that  she  knew  well  her  duty, 
That  other  folks'  children  were  kept  by  their  friends, 
And  that  some  folks  loved  people  but  for  their  own  ends. 

Zounds,  neighbor !  quoth  Pitt,  what  the  devil's  the  matter? 
A  man  cannot  rest  in  his  house  for  your  clatter ; 
Alas  !  cries  the  daughter,  here's  dainty  fine  work, 
The  old  woman  grown  harder  than  Jew  or  than  Turk. 


THE    WORLD    TURNED    UPSIDE    DOWN.  35 

She  be ,  says  the  farmer,  and  to  her  he  goes, 

First  roars  in  her  ears,  then  tweaks  her  old  nose, 
Hallo,  Goody,  what  ails  you  ?     Wake  !  woman,  I  say ; 
I  am  come  to  make  peace,  in  this  desperate  fray. 

Adzooks,  ope  thine  eyes,  what  a  pother  is  here  ! 
You've  no  right  to  compel  her,  you  have  not,  I  swear ; 
Be  ruled  by  your  friends,  kneel  down  and  ask  pardon, 
You'd  be  sorry,  I'm  sure,  should  she  walk  Covent  Garden. 

Alas !  cries  the  old  woman,  and  must  I  comply  ? 
But  I'd  rather  submit  than  the  huzzy  should  die ; 
Pooh,  prithee  be  quiet,  be  friends  and  agree. 
You  must  surely  be  right,  if  you're  guided  hy  me. 

Unwillingly  awkward,  the  mother  knelt  down, 
While  the  absolute  farmer  went  on  with  a  frown. 
Come,  kiss  the  poor  child,  there  come,  kiss  and  be  friends! 
There,  kiss  your  poor  daughter,  and  make  her  amends. 

No  thanks  to  you,  mother ;  the  daughter  replied  : 

But  thanks  to  my  friend  here,  I've  bumbled  your  pride. 


^i  fibtrtjj  Smvg. 


1768. 

A  short  time  after  the  refusal  of  the  Massachusetts  Legislature 
to  rescind  the  Circular  Letter  of  February  11,  1768,  relating  to  the 
imposition  of  duties  and  taxes  on  the  American  colonies,  John  Dick- 
inson^ of  Delaware,  the  celebrated  author  of  a  series  of  essays  enti- 
tled "  The  Farmer's  Letters,"  \vrote  to  James  Otis  of  Massachusetts, 
as  follows :  "  I  enclose  you  a  song  for  American  freedom.  I  have 
long  since  renounced  poetry,  but  as  indifferent  songs  are  very  pow- 
erful on  certain  occasions,  I  venture  to  invoke  the  deserted  muses. 
I  hope  my  good  intentions  wiU  procure  pardon,  with  those  I  wish  to 
please,  for  the  boldness  of  my  numbers.  My  worthy  friend.  Dr. 
Arthur  Lee,^  a  gentleman  of  distinguished  family,  abilities  and  pa- 
triotism, in  Virginia,  composed  eight  lines  of  it.  Cardinal  De  Eetz 
always  enforced  his  political  operations  by  songs.  I  wish  our  at- 
tempt may  be  useful."  This  song  was  published  in  the  Boston  Ga- 
zette of  July  18,  1768,  to  which  paper  Mr.  Otis,  and  other  early  ad- 
vocates of  political  and  religious  liberty,  often  contributed.  It  also 
appeared  in  the  various  newspapers  of  New  England,  where  it  soon 
became  very  popular. 

On  the  sixth  of  July,  two  days  after  the  date  of  his  first  letter, 
Mr.  Dickinson  wrote  again  to  Mr.  Otis,  saying,  "  I  enclosed  you  the 


THE    LIBERTY    SONG.  37 

other  da}'  a  copy  of  a  song  composed  in  great  haste.  I  think  it  was 
ri'.ther  too  bold.  I  now  send  a  corrected  copy  which  I  like  better. 
If  you  think  the  bagatelle  worth  publishing,  I  beg  it  may  be  this 
copy.  If  the  first  is  published  before  this  is  come  to  hand,  I  shall 
be  much  obliged  to  you  if  you  will  be  so  good  as  to  pubhsh  this  with 
some  httle  note,  '  that  this  is  the  true  copy  of  the  original.'  ^  In 
this  copy  I  think  it  may  be  well  enough  to  add  between  the  fourth 
and  fifth  stanzas  these  lines : 


now  sweet  are  the  labors  that  freemen  endure. 
That  they  shall  enjoy  all  the  'profit,  secure — 
No  more  such  siceet  labors  Americans  know. 
If  Britons  shall  reap  what  Americans  sow. 
In  freedom  we^re  born — " 


A  SONG  NOW  MUCH  IN  VOGUE  IN  NORTH  AMERICA. 
1768. 

Come  joiu  hand  in  hand,  brave  Americans  all, 
And  rouse  your  bold  hearts  at  fair  Liberty's  call ; 
No  tyrannous  acts,  shall  suppress  your  just  claim, 
Or  stain  with  dishonor  America's  name. 

In  freedom  we're  born,  and  in  freedom  we'll  live ; 
Our  purses  are  ready, 
Steady,  Friends,  steady. 
Not  as  slaves^  but  2^^  freemen  our  money  we'll  give. 


38  THE    LIBERTY    SONG. 

Our  worthy  forefathers — let's  give  them  a  cheer — 
To  climates  unknown  did  courageously  steer ; 
Thro'  oceans  to  deserts,  for  freedom  they  came, 
And,  dying,  bequeath'd  us  their  freedom  and  fame. 

Their  generous  bosoms  all  dangers  despis'd, 
So  highly,  so  wisely,  their  birthrights  they  priz'd ; 
We'll  keep  what  they  gave,  we  will  piously  keep, 
Nor  frustrate  their  toils  on  the  land  or  the  deep. 

The  Tree,  their  own  hands  had  to  Liberty  rear'd, 
They  lived  to  behold  growing  strong  and  rever'd ; 
With  transport  then  cried, —  "  Now  our  wishes  we  gain, 
For  our  children  shall  gather  the  fruits  of  our  pain.  " 

How  sweet  are  the  labors  that  freemen  endure, 
That  they  shall  enjoy  all  the  profit,  secure, — 
No  more  such  sweet  labors  Americans  know, 
If  Britons  shall  reap  what  Americans  sow. 

Swarms  of  placemen  and  pensioners  *  soon  will  appear, 
Like  locusts  deforming  the  charms  of  the  year  : 
Suns  vainly  will  rise,  showers  vainly  descend. 
If  we  are  to  drudge  for  what  others  shall  spend. 


THE    LIBERTY    SONG.  39 

Then  join  hand  in  hand  brave  Americans  all, 
By  uniting  we  stand,  by  dividing  we  fall ; 
In  so  righteous  a  cause  let  us  hope  to  succeed, 
For  Heaven  approves  of  each  generous  deed. 

All  ages  shall  speak  with  amaze  and  applause. 
Of  the  courage  we'll  show  in  support  of  our  laws ; 
To  die  we  can  bear, — but  to  serve  we  disdain. 
For  shame  is  to  freemen  more  dreadful  than  pain. 

This  bumper  I  crown  for  our  sovereign's  health, 
And  this  for  Britannia's  glory  and  wealth ; 
That  wealth,  and  that  glory  immortal  may  be. 
If  she  is  but  just,  and  we  are  but  free. 
In  freedom  we're  born,  &c. 

^  John  DicMnson  occupies  a  prominent  position  in  the  early  his- 
tory of  the  Revolution.  He  was  a  member  of  the  Pennsylvania  As- 
sembly in  1764  ;  of  the  Congress  of  1765,  and  also  of  the  first  Con- 
tinental Congress,  which  met  in  Carpenter's  Hall  at  Philadelphia  on 
the  fourth  of  September,  177-4.  Of  the  important  and  eloquent  state 
papers  of  that  Congress,  he  wrote  the  principal  part.  Though  so 
little  a  republican  at  the  commencement  of  the  Revolutionary  diffi- 
culties, as  to  oppose  the  Declaration  of  Independence,  because  he 
loubted  the  policy  of  Congress,  "  without  some  preclusory  trials  of 
>ur  strength,"  he  fully  proved  the  sincerity  of  his  attachment  to  the 


40  THE    LIBERTY    SONG. 

liberties  of  his  couuti'T  by  marching  to  Elizabethtown,  at  the  head 
of  his  regiment,  a  short  time  after  the  declaration,  to  repel  the  invad- 
ing enemy.  In  November,  1767,  the  first  of  a  series  of  communica- 
tions written  by  him,  entitled  "  Letters  from  a  farmer  in  Penn- 
sylvania, to  the  inhabitants  of  the  British  Colonies,"  appeared  in  the 
Pennsylvania  Chronicle.     Dickinson  died  February  14,  1808. 

^  Arthur  Lee  was  a  bold  and  fearless  patriot.  At  the  commence- 
ment of  the  troubles  with  the  mother  country,  he  went  to  England, 
from  whence  he  rendered  most  important  services  to  his  country,  by 
sending  to  the  patriots  the  earliest  intelligence  of  the  plans  of  the 
Ministry.  His  writings  are  numerous,  chiefly  political ;  among  them 
the  most  celebrated,  are  the  letters  under  the  signature  of  "  Junius 
Americanus."  In  a  letter  to  Samuel  Adams  he  says,  "  The  first  wish 
of  my  heart  is,  that  America  may  be  free — the  second  is — that  we 
may  ever  be  united  with  this  country.  But  this  union,  however  de- 
sirable, must  not  be  upon  dishonorable  and  slavish  terms." 

^  In  the  Pennsylvania  Chronicle,  published  at  Philadelphia,  July  4 
-11,  1768,  this  amended  copy  appears  ;  but  we  do  not  find  it  com- 
plete in  any  of  the  Boston  papers.  It  is  probable  that  the  request  of 
the  author  was  never  complied  with,  and  if  there  was  any  alteration 
in  the  copy  published  after  July  18,  it  was  done  without  any  note  or 
comment.  Late  in  September,  it  appeared  in  a  ballad  sheet,  set  to 
the  majestic  air,  "Hearts  of  Oak,"  and  was  sung  in  the  sti-eets  of 
Boston  and  the  villages  of  New  England,  by  all  the  sons  of  freedom, 
who  "  promised  themselves  that  all  ages  would  applaud  their  cour- 
age." 

*  Swarms  ofplMemen  and  pensioners.  The  Ministry  have  already 
begun  to  give  away  in  pensions  the  money  they  lately  took  out  of 
our  pockets,  tdthout  our  leave. — j\^ote  ly  the  author  of  the  song. 


^  lawbs 


UPON    A    WELL-KNOWN    LIBERTY    SONG. 
1768. 

This  parody,  upon  the  preceding  song,  was  first  published  in  the 
Boston  Gazette,  on  the  twenty-sixth  of  September,  1768,  with  the 
subjoined  brief  notice.  "Last  Tuesday,  the  following  song  made  its 
appearance  from  a  garret  at  Castle  William."  The  author  is  un- 
known. 

THE  PAKODY. 

OoME  sliake  your  dull  noddles,  ye  pumpkins,  and  bawl, 
And  own  that  you're  mad  at  fair  Liberty's  call ; 
No  scandalous  conduct  can  add  to  your  sbame, 
Condemn'd  to  dishonor,  inherit  the  fame. 

In  folly  you're  born,  and  in  folly  you'll  live, 
To  madness  still  ready. 
And  stupidly  steady. 
Not  as  men,  but  as  monkeys,  the  tokens  you  give. 


42  THE    PARODY. 

Your  grandsire,  old  Satan,  now  give  him  a  cheer, 
Would  act  like  yourselves,  and  as  wildly  would  steer  : 
So  great  an  example  in  prospect  still  keep, 
Whilst  you  are  alive,  Old  Belza  may  sleep. 

Such  villains,  such  rascals,  all  dangers  despise, 
And  stick  not  at  mobbing  when  mischief's  the  prize ; 
They  burst  thro'  all  barriers,  and  piously  keep 
Such  chattels  and  goods  the  vile  rascals  can  sweep. 

The  Tree,  which  the  wisdom  of  justice  hath  rear'd. 
Should  be  stout  for  their  use,  and  by  no  means  be  spar'd ; 
When  fuddled  with  rum  the  mad  sots  to  restrain, 
Sure  Tyburn  will  sober  the  wretches  again. 

Your  brats  and  your  hunters  by  no  means  forget. 
But  feather  your  nests,  for  they're  bare  enough  yet ; 
From  the  insolent  rich  sure  the  poor  knave  may  steal, 
Who  ne'er  in  his  life  knew  the  scent  of  a  meal. 

When  in  your  own  cellars  you've  quaff'd  a  regale, 

Then  drive,  tug  and ,  the  next  house  to  assail; 

For  short  is  your  harvest,  nor  long  shall  you  know 
The  pleasure  of  .reaping  what  other  men  sow. 


THE    PARODY.  43 

Then  plunder,  my  lads,  for  when  red  coats  appear, 
You'll  melt  like  the  locust  when  winter  is  near ; 
Grold  vainly  will  glow,  silver  vainly  will  shine. 
But,  faith,  you  must  skulk,  you  no  more  shall  purloin. 

Then  nod  your  poor  numskulls,  ye  pumpkins,  and  bawl, 
The  de'il  take  such  rascals,  fools,  whoresons  and  all ; 
Your  cursed  old  trade  of  purloining  must  cease. 
The  dread  and  the  curse  of  all  order  and  peace. 

All  ages  shall  speak  with  contempt  and  amaze, 
Of  the  vilest  banditti  that  swarm'd  in  these  days ; 
In  defiance  of  halters,  of  whips  and  of  chains. 
The  rogues  would  run  riot, — fools  for  their  pains. 

Gulp  down  your  last  dram,  for  the  gallows  now  groans, 
And,  over  depressed,  her  lost  empire  bemoans  ; 
While  we  quite  transported  and  happy  shall  be, 
From  mobs,  knaves  and  villains,  protected  and  free 


OK   THE 

MASSACHUSETTS    LIBERTY    SONG, 
1768. 


This  loyal  soug  is  much  the  best  of  those  composed  dm-iug  the 
earliest  struggles  of  the  Colonists,  and  is  forcibly  illustrative  of  the 
nature  and  spirit  of  the  times  in  which  it  was  composed.  It  was 
published  in  the  St.  James  Chronicle,  at  London,  on  the  eighth  of 
November,  1768,  as  well  as  in  America,  and  intended  as  a  rejoinder 
to  the  foregoing  parody. 


THE  PARODY  PARODISED. 

Come  swallow  your  bumpers,  ye  tories,  and  roar, 
That  the  sons  of  fair  Freedom  are  hamper'd  once  more ; 
But  know  that  no  cut-throats  our  spirits  can  tame, 
Nor  a  host  of  oppressors  shall  smother  the  flame. 


THE    PARODY    PARODIZED.  45 

In  freedom  we're  born,  and,  like  sons  of  the  brave, 

Well  never  surrender, 

But  swear  to  defend  her. 
And  scorn  to  survive,  if  unable  to  save. 

Our  grandsires,  blest  heroes  !  we'll  give  them  a  tear. 
Nor  sully  their  honors,  by  stooping  to  fear ; 
Thro'  deaths  and  thro'  dangers,  their  trophies  they  won, 
We  dare  be  their  rivals,  nor  will  be  outdone. 

Let  tyrants  and  minions  presume  to  despise, 
Encroach  on  our  rights,  and  make  freedom  their  prize : 
The  fruits  of  their  rapine  they  never  shall  keep ; 
Tho'  vengeance  may  nod,  yet  how  short  is  her  sleep  ! 

The  tree,  which  proud  Haman  for  Mordecai  rear'd. 
Stands  recorded,  that  virtue  endanger'd  is  spar'd, 
That  rogues  whom  no  bonds  and  no  laws  can  restrain, 
Must  be  stript  of  their  honors,  and  humbled  again. 

Our  wives  and  our  babes,  still  protected,  shall  know, 
Those  who  dare  to  be  free,  shall  for  ever  be  so ; 
On  these  arms  and  these  hearts  they  may  safely  rely. 
For  in  freedom  we'll  live,  or  like  heroes  we'll  die. 


46  THE    PARODY    PARODIZED. 

Ye  insolent  tyrants  !  who  wish  to  enthrall 
Ye  minions,  ye  placemen,  pimps,  pensioners,  all, 
How  short  is  your  triumph  !  how  feeble  your  trust ! 
Your  honors  must  wither  and  nod  to  the  dust. 

When  oppress'd  and  reproach'd,  our  king  we  implore. 
Still  firmly  persuaded  our  rights  he'll  restore ; 
When  our  hearts  beat  to  arms,  to  defend  a  just  right, 
Our  monarch  rules  there,  and  forbids  us  to  fight. 

Not  the  glitter  of  arms,  nor  the  dread  of  a  fray, 
Could  make  us  submit  to  their  chains  for  a  day ; 
Withheld  by  affection,  on  Britons  we  call, — 
Prevent  the  fierce  conflict  which  threatens  your  fall ! 

All  ages  shall  speak,  with  amaze  and  applause. 
Of  the  prudence  we  show  in  support  of  our  cause ; 
Assur'd  of  our  safety,  a  Brunswick  still  reigns, 
Whose  free  loyal  subjects  are  strangers  to  chains. 

Then  join  hand  in  hand,  brave  Americans  all ! 
To  be  free  is  to  live,  to  be  slaves  is  to  fall ; 
Has  the  land  such  a  dastard,  as  scorns  not  a  lord, 
Who  dreads  not  a  fetter  much  more  than  a  sword. 


THE    PARODY    PARODIZED.  47 

In  freedom  we're  born,  and,  like  sons  of  the  brave, 

"We'll  never  surrender, 

But  swear  to  defend  her. 
And  scorn  to  survive,  if  unable  to  save. 


Hearts  of  Oak.  The  original  song,  under  this  title,  was  com- 
posed by  David  Garrick.  It  was  very  popular  during  the  American 
wars,  hoth  of  1776  and  1812,  among  the  British,  and  at  the  present 
day  is  sung  by  many  of 

"  Our  soldiers,  our  sailors,  our  statesmen," 

in  "  merrie  old  England." 


I0  t\t  fables. 


1769. 

In  the  year  1768,  the  people  of  Boston  resolved  that  they  would 
not  import  any  tea,  glass,  paper,  or  other  commodities  commonly 
brought  from  Great  Britain,  until  the  act  imposing  duties  upon  all 
such  articles  should  be  repealed.  This  poetical  appeal  to  the  ladies 
of  the  country,  to  lend  a  "helping  hand  "  for  the  furtherance  of  that 
resolution,  appeared  in  the  Boston  News  Letter,  anonymously. 


TO  OUR  LADIES. 

Young  ladies  in  town,  and  those  that  live  round, 
Let  a  friend  at  this  season  advise  you ; 

Since  money's  so  scarce,  and  times  growing  worse, 
Strange  things  may  soon  hap  and  surprise  you. 


TO    OUR    LADIES.  49 

First,  then,  throw  aside  your  topknots  of  pride ; 

"Wear  none  but  your  own  country  linen ; 
Of  economy  boast,  let  your  pride  be  the  most 

To  show  clothes  of  your  own  make  and  spinning.^ 

What  if  homespun  they  say  is  not  quite  so  gay 

As  brocades,  yet  be  not  in  a  passion, 
For  when  once  it  is  known  this  is  much  worn  in  town, 

One  and  all  will  cry  out — 'Tis  the  fashion  ! 

And,  as  one,  all  agree,  that  you'll  not  married  be 

To  such  as  will  wear  London  factory. 
But  at  first  sight  refuse,  tell  'em  such  you  will  choose 

As  encourage  our  own  manufactory. 

No  more  ribbons  wear,  nor  in  rich  silks  appear ; 

Love  your  country  much  better  than  fine  things  ] 
Begin  without  passion,  'twill  soon  be  the  fashion 

To  grace  your  smooth  locks  with  a  twine  string. 

Throw  aside  your  Bohea,  and  your  Green  Hyson  tea, 
And  all  things  with  a  new-fashion  duty ; 

Procure  a  good  store  of  the  choice  Labrador, 
For  there'll  soon  be  enough  here  to  suit  you. 
3 


60  TO    OUR    LADIES. 

These  do  without  fear,  and  to  all  you'll  appear, 

Fair,  charming,  true,  lovely  and  clever ; 
Though  the  times  remain  darkish,  young  men  may  be 
sparkish. 

And  love  you  much  stronger  than  ever. 

Then  make  yourselves  easy,  for  no  one  will  teaze  ye, 

Nor  tax  you,  if  chancing  to  sneer 
At  the  sense-ridden  tools,  who  think  us  all  fools ; 

But  they'll  find  the  reverse  far  and  near. 


*  To  show  clothes  of  your  own  make  and  spinning.  About  tliis  time 
a  party  of  yonng  ladies,  calling  themselves  "  Daughters  of  Liberty," 
met  at  the  house  of  "  a  distinguished  minister,  in  Boston,  where 
they  amused  themselves  with  spinning  two  hundred  and  thirty-two 
fekems  of  yarn,  some  very  fine,  which  were  given  to  the  worthy 
pastor,  several  of  the  party  being  members  of  his  congi-egation. 
The  party  was  concluded  with  many  agreeable  tunes,  anthems  and 
liberty  songs,  with  great  judgment ;  fine  voices  performing,  which 
were  animated,  in  all  their  several  parts,  by  a  number  of  the  Sons 
of  Liberty."  The  following  quotation,  from  Murray's  United  States, 
shows  the  eflfect  such  resolutions  and  actions  had  upon  the  trade  of 
England  with  the  Colonies.  The  exports  from  England,  Avhich,  "in 
1768  amounted  to  sll,890,000,  declined,  in  1769,  to  ^8,170,000." 


^  ptto  S0itg. 


1770. 

These  verses  appeared  iu  a  broadside,  a  short  time  after  the 
'•  massacre  of  the  fifth  of  March,"  ^  1770,  as  a  "  new  song  much  in 
vogue  among  the  friends  to  arbitary  power,  and  the  soldiery  at  Cas- 
tle Island,-  where  it  was  composed,  since  the  troops  have  evacuated 
the  town  of  Boston." 

CASTLE  ISLAND  SONG. 

You  simple  Bostonians,  I'd  have  you  beware, 
Of  your  Liberty  Tree,  I  would  Lave  you  take  care, 
For  if  that  we  chance  to  return  to  the  town, 
Your  houses  and  stores  will  come  tumbling  down. 
Derry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 


62 


CASTLE    ISLAND    SOXG. 


If  you  will  not  agree  to  Old  England's  laws, 
I  fear  tliat  King  Hancock  will  soon  get  the  yaws : 
But  lie  need  not  fear,  for  I  swear  we  will, 
For  the  want  of  a  doctor  give  him  a  hard  pill. 

A  brave  reinforcement,  we  soon  think  to  get ; 
Then  we  will  make  you  poor  pumpkins  to  sweat : 
Our  drums  they'll  rattle,  and  then  you  will  run 
To  the  devil  himself,  from  the  sight  of  a  gun. 

Our  fleet  and  our  army,  they  soon  will  arrive, 
Then  to  a  bleak  island,  you  shall  not  us  drive. 
In  every  house,  you  shall  have  three  or  four. 
And  if  that  will  not  please  you,  you  shall  have  half  a  score. 
Derry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 


^  Massacre  of  the  fifth  of  March.  Two  regiments  of  British  troops 
under  command  of  Colonels  Dalrymple  and  Carr,  arrived  at  Boston 
in  the  month  of  September,  1768.  The  people  of  Boston  desired 
that  they  should  he  stationed  at  the  Castle,  hut  "  they  landed  wnth 
all  the  appearance  of  hostility !  They  marched  through  the  town 
with  all  the  ensigns  of  triumph,  evidently  designed  to  subject  the 
inhabitants  to  the  severe  discipline  of  a  garrison,  and  continued  their 
enormities  by  abusing  the  people."  On  the  second  day  of  March, 
1770,  a  quarrel  arose  between  two  soldiers  of  the  29th  regiment, 
and  the  workmen  at  a  ropewalk  not  far  distant  from  the  barracks. 
The  soldiers  being  repulsed,  soon  made  another  attack,  having  in- 


CASTLE    ISLAND    SONG.  53 

creased  their  number  to  ten  or  twelve,  but  these  were  also  success- 
fully resisted.  In  consequence  of  these  quaiTels  the  soldiery  declared 
they  would  be  avenged.  The  following  account  of  their  proceedings 
is  taken  from  the  Boston  Chronicle  of  March  8,  1770.  "  Last  Mon- 
day about  9  o'clock  at  night  a  most  unfortunate  affair  happened  in 
King  Street.  The  sentinel  posted  at  the  Custom  House,  being  sur- 
r>junded  by  a  number  of  people,  called  to  the  main-guard,  upon  which 
Captain  Preston,  with  a  party,  went  to  his  assistance,  soon  aftei 
which  some  of  the  party  fired,  by  which  the  following  persons  were 
killed.  Samuel  Gray,  rope  maker,  a  mulatto  man,  named  Attucks, 
and  Mr.  James  Caldwell.  Early  the  next  morning  Captain  Preston 
was  committed  to  jail,  and  the  same  day  eight  soldiers.  A  meeting 
of  the  inhabitants  was  called  at  Faneuil  Hall  that  forenoon,  and  the 
lieutenant-governor  and  council  met  at  the  council  chamber, 
where  the  Colonels,  Dalrymple  and  Carr,  were  desired  to  attend, 
when  it  was  concluded  upon,  that  both  regiments  should  go  down  to 
the  barracks  at  Castle  William,  as  soon  as  they  were  ready  to  receive 
them." 

The  funeral  of  the  victims  of  the  massacre  was  attended  the  8th 
of  March.  On  this  occasion  the  shops  of  the  town  were  closed,  and 
all  the  bells  were  ordered  to  be  tolled,  as  were  those  of  the  neigh- 
l)oring  towns.  The  procession  began  to  move  between  4  and  5 
o'clock,  P.  M.,  the  bodies  of  the  two  strangers,  Caldicdl  and  Attucks, 
being  borne  from  Faneuil  Hall,  and  those  of  the  other  victims,  from 
the  residence  of  their  families, — the  hearses  meeting  in  King  Street, 
near  the  scene  of  the  tragedy,  and  passing  thi-ough  the  main  street, 
to  the  burial  ground,  where  the  bodies  were  all  deposited  in  one 
vault.  Patrick  Carr,  who  was  wounded  in  the  affair,  died  on  the 
14rth,  and  was  buried  on  the  17th,  in  the  same  vault  with  his  mur- 
dered associates.  Shortly  after  the  occurrence  Paul  Revere,  of  Bos- 
ton, engraved  and  printed  a  large  handbill,  giving  a  sketch  of  the 
scene,  and  accompanied  it  with  the  following  lines  : 

"  Unhappy  Boston  !  see  thy  sons  deplore 

Thy  hafiowed  walks  besmear "d  with  guiltless  gore. 


54  CASTLE    ISLAND    SONG. 


While  faithless  Preston  and  his  savage  bands, 
With  miirdero:  s  rancor  stretch  their  bloody  hands; 
Like  fiiTce  barbarians  grinning  o'er  their  prey, 
Approve  the  carnage  and  enjoy  the  day. 
If  scalding  drops,  from  rage,  from  anguish  wrung, 
If  speechless  sorrows  laboring  for  a  tongue  . 
Or  if  a  weeping  world  can  aught  appease 
The  plaintive  ghosts  of  victims  such  as  theso ; 
The  patriot's  copious  tears  for  each  are  shed, 
A  glorious  tribute  which  embalms  the  dead. 
But  know,  Fate  summons  to  that  awful  goal, 
"Where  justice  strips  the  murderer  of  his  soul: 
Should  venal  C— ts,  the  scandal  of  the  land, 
Snatch  the  relentless  villain  from  her  hand. 
Keen  execrations  on  this  plate  inscrib'd 
Shall  reach  a  judge  who  never  can  be  bribed." 

^  Castle  Island.  Castle  William  was  situated  on  this  island.  lu 
1798,  the  fortress  was  ceded  to  the  United  States,  and  in  the  follow- 
ing year  was  named  by  President  Adams,  Fort  Independence. 


%k  ®a^A  fa. 


1773. 

On  the  tenth  day  of  May,  1773,  the  East  India  Company  were 
authorized,  by  act  of  Parliament,  to  export  their  tea,  free  of  duty, 
to  England,  hut  with  a  tax  of  threepence  a  pound  to  all  ports  in  the 
American  Colonies.  This  was  considered  by  the  colonists  as  a 
scheme  of  the  Ministry  to  prepare  them  for  an  unlimited  taxation. 
Advice  having  been  received,  that  the  company  had  resolved  to  send 
out  large  quantities  of  tea  on  their  own  account,  to  be  sold  in  the 
various  colonies,  the  people  immediately  resolved  to  send  it  back  to 
England,  in  the  same  ships  in  which  it  should  come.  The  pilots  were 
directed  how  to  proceed  with  the  ships  on  their  arrival,  and  were 
required  to  bring  them  no  farther  than  within  the  entrance  of  the 
harbor.  The  consignees  were  summoned  to  appear  at  Liberty  Tree 
and  resign  their  office ;  but  to  this  they  replied  in  letters  "  daringly 
affrontive  to  the  town,"  declining  to  resign.  On  the  morning  of  the 
twenty-eighth  of  November,  the  ship  Dartmouth,  with  one  hundred 
and  fourteen  chests  of  the  long-expected  tea,  came  to  anchor  near 
the  Castle  in  Boston  harbor,  and  on  the  following  morning  came  up 


56  A    NEW    SONG. 

and  anchored  off  Griffin's  wharf.  At  the  same  time,  near  seven 
thousand  persons,  from  the  several  towns  around  Boston,  "  respecta- 
ble for  their  ranks  and  abilities,  and  venerable  for  their  age  and 
character,"  assembled  and  iinanimously  adhered  to  their  former  reso- 
lution, that  the  tea  should  not  be  landed.  "  During  the  session  of 
this  meeting,  a  number  of  persons,  disguised  as  Indians,  approached 
near  to  the  door  of  the  Assembly,  and  gave  the  war-whoop,  which 
was  answered  by  a  few  in  the  galleries  of  the  house.  The  savages 
then  repaired  to  the  siiips  [now  numbering  three],  which  harbored 
the  pestilential  teas,  and  began  their  ravage.  They  applied  them- 
selves in  earnest,  and  in  about  two  hours,  broke  up  three  hiindred 
and  forty-two  chests  of  tea  and  discharged  their  contents  into  the 
sea."  This  song  appeared  a  short  time  after  the  occurrence,  in  the 
Pennsylvania  Packet,  under  the  name  of  "  Anew  Song,  to  the  plain- 
tive tune  of  '  Hozier's  Ghost.' " 

A  NEW  SONG. 

As  near  beauteous  Boston  lying, 

On  the  gently  swelling  flood, 
Without  jack  or  pendant  flying. 

Three  ill-fated  tea-ships  rode. 

Just  as  glorious  Sol  was  setting, 

On  the  wharf,  a  numerous  crew, 
Sons  of  freedom,  fear  forgetting. 

Suddenly  appeared  in  view. 


A    NEW    SONG.  57 

Armed  with  hammers,  axe  and  chisels, 

Weapons  new  for  warlike  deed, 
Towards  the  herbage-freighted  vessels. 

They  approached  with  dreadful  speed. 

O'er  their  heads  aloft  in  mid -sky. 
Three  bright  angel  forms  were  seen ; 

This  was  Hampden,  that  was  Sidney, 
With  fair  Liberty  between. 

"  Soon,"  they  cried,  "  your  foes  you'll  banish, 
Soon  the  triumph  shall  be  won  ; 
Scarce  shall  setting  Phoebus  vanish, 
Ere  the  deathless  deed  be  done."  ^ 

Quick  as  thought  the  ships  were  boarded, 
Hatches  burst  and  chests  displayed  ; 

Axes,  hammers  help  afforded ; 

What  a  glorious  crash  they  made. 

Squash  into  the  deep  descended. 

Cursed  weed  of  China's  coast ; 
Thus  at  once  our  fears  were  ended ; 

British  rights  shall  ne'er  be  lost. 


58  A    NEW    SONG. 

Captains !  once  more  hoist  your  streamers, 
Spread  your  sails,  and  plough  the  wave ; 

Tell  your  masters  they  were  dreamers, 
When  they  thought  to  cheat  the  brave. 


Ere  the  deathless  deed  be  done.  During  the  operations  of  the 
savages,  on  board  the  tea-ships,  a  watch  was  stationed  to  prevent 
embezzlement,  and  not  a  single  onnce  of  the  commodity  was  suf- 
fered to  be  purloined  by  the  populace.  One  or  two  persons  being 
detected,  in  endeavoring  to  pocket  a  small  quantity,  were  "  stripped 
of  their  acquisitions  and  very  roughly  handled.  Although  a  con- 
siderable quantity  of  merchandise,  of  different  kinds,  remained  on 
board  the  vessels,  no  injury  was  sustained.  Such  attention  to  private 
property  was  observed,  that  a  small  padlock,  belonging  to  the  cap- 
tain of  one  of  the  ships,  being  broke,  another  was  procured  and  sent 
to  him."     Freeman's  Journal. 

A  Ladys  adieu  to  her  tea-table,  published   a  short  time  after  the 
destruction  of  the  tea  at  Boston. 

Farewell  the  tea-board,  with  its  gaudy  equipage 

Of  caps  and  saucers,  cream  bucket,  sugar  tongs, 

The  pretty  tea  cbest  also,  lately  stored 

With  Hyson,  Congo,  and  best  double  fine. 

Full  many  a  joyous  moment  I've  sat  by  ye, 

Hearing  the  girls  tattle,  the  old  maids  talk  scandal, 

And  the  spruce  coxcomb  laugh  at— may-be — nothing. 

No  more  shall  I  dish  out  the  once  loved  liquor. 

Though  now  detestable, 

Because  I'm  taught,  and  believe  it  tru9, 

Its  use  will  fasten  slavish  chains  upon  my  country. 

For  Liberty's  the  goodess  I  would  choose 

To  reign  triumphant  in  America. 


firghtia  iaitisling  %m. 

1774. 

Many  tirgent  appeals  to  the  people  of  the  different  colonies  were 
made  after  the  destruction  of  the  tea  at  Boston,  calling  upon  them 
to  abstain  from  the  use  of  all  imported  commodities,  and  to  confine 
themselves  to  the  fragrant  herbs  and  other  productions  of  their  own 
fields  and  forests.  The  following  poetical  one  Tv^as  written  by  a 
young  lady,  of  whom  all  that  is  known  is,  that  she  was  "  a  native 
of  Virginia,  endowed  with  all  the  graces  of  a  cultivated  mind,  plea- 
sant external  qualities,  and  a  model  of  patriotism  worthy  the  emula- 
tion of  many  more  conspicuous." 

YTRGINIA  BANISHING  TEA. 

Begone,  perDicious,  baneful  tea, 
With  all  Pandora's  ills  possessed, 

Hyson,  no  more  beguiled  by  thee^ 
My  noble  sons  sball  be  oppressed. 


60  VIRGINIA    BANISHING    TEA. 


To  Britain  fly,  where  gold  enslaves, 
And  venal  men  tlieir  birth-right  sell ; 

Tell  North  and  his  bribed  clan  of  knaves, 
Their  bloody  acts  were  made  in  hell. 

In  Henry's  reign  those  acts  began, 
Which  sacred  rules  of  justice  broke 

North  now  pursues  the  hellish  plan, 
To  fix  on  us  his  slavish  yoke. 

But  we  oppose,  and  will  be  free, 

This  great  good  cause  we  will  defend ; 

Nor  bribe,  nor  Gage,  nor  North's  decree, 
Shall  make  us  "  at  his  feet  to  bend." 

From  Anglia's  ancient  sons  we  came ; 

Those  heroes  who  for  freedom  fought ; 
In  freedom's  cause  we'll  march ;  their  fame. 

By  their  example  greatly  taught. 

Our  king  we  love,  but  North  we  hate. 
Nor  will  to  him  submission  own  ; 

If  death's  our  doom  we'll  brave  our  fate. 
But  pay  allegiance  to  the  throne. 


VIRGINIA    BANISHING    TEA.  61 

Then  rouse,  my  sons !  from  slavery  free 
Your  suffering  homes;  from  Grod's  high  wrath ; 
Gird  on  your  steel ;  give  liheriy 
To  all  who  follow  in  our  path. 

^  Bysan,  no  more  heguUed  hy  thee.  These  appeals,  very  generally, 
had  the  desired  effects.  Some,  however,  of  the  "  more  ancient  and 
decaide  females,"  could  not  deny  themselves  the  pleasing  stimulant, 
and  it  was  their  custom  to  take  a  "wee  drop "  clandestinely.  The 
following  is  one,  of  many  anecdotes  concerning  these  quiet  solace- 
ments.  *'  A  lady  of  Virginia,  heing  in  opulent  circumstances,  invi- 
ted a  party  of  her  female  acquaintances  to  pass  an  evening  with  her 
in  a  private  room  up  stairs,  where  they  were  to  regale  themselves 
with  a  dish  of  the  forbidden  tea.  But  the  husband  of  the  lady, 
inferring,  from  the  appearance  of  affairs,  what  was  going  on,  quietly 
stole  up  staijs  and  slipped  a  piece  of  tobacco  into  the  tea-kettle. 
The  consequence  was,  the  ladies  all  went  home  most  terribly  dis- 
tui-bed  and  uncertain ;  while  the  old  gentleman  enjoyed  himself, 
patriofically,  at  their  expense." 


®|e  itoteJr  ferfe. 


1774. 

This  ballad  first  appeared  in  Fowle's  Gazette,  on  the  twenty- 
second  of  July,  1 774,  but  soon  after  was  adapted  to  a  sacred  air,  and 
published  in  a  broadside.  It  has  been  attributed  to  Meshech  Weare, 
who  was  president  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire  in  1776.  He 
was  born  in  1714,  graduated  at  Harvard  College  in  1735,  and  pass- 
ing through  the  highest  offices  of  the  State  in  which  he  lived,  died 
at  Hampton  Falls,  in  the  early  part  of  1786. 

INDIA  TEA. 

KousE  every  generous  thoughtful  mind, 

The  rising  danger  flee, 
If  you  would  lasting  freedom  find, 

Now  then  abandon  tea. 


INDIA    TEA.  63 

Scorn  to  be  bound  with  golden  chains, 

Though  they  allure  the  sight ; 
Bid  them  defiance,  if  they  claim 

Our  freedom  and  birth-right. 

Shall  we  our  freedom  give  away, 

And  all  our  comfort  place 
In  drinking  of  outlandish  tea. 

Only  to  please  our  taste  ? 

Forbid  it  Heaven,  let  us  be  wise, 

And  seek  our  country's  good ; 
Nor  ever  let  a  thought  arise, 

That  tea  should  be  our  food. 

Since  we  so  great  a  plenty  have, 

Of  all  that's  for  our  health ; 
Shall  we  that  blasted  herb  receive, 

Impoverishing  our  wealth  ? 

When  we  survey  the  breathless  corpse, 

With  putrid  matter  filled ; 
For  crawling  worms,  a  sweet  resort, 

By  us  reputed  ill. 


64  INDIA    TEA. 

Noxious  effluvia  sending  out, 
From  its  pernicious  store, 

Not  only  from  the  foaming  mouth, 
But  every  lifeless  pore. 

To  view  the  same  enrolled  in  tea. 
Besmeared  with  such  perfumes. 

And  then  the  herb  sent  o'er  the  sea, 
To  us  it  tainted  comes — 

Some  of  it  tinctured  with  a  filth, 
Of  carcasses  embalmed ; 

Taste  of  this  herb,  then,  if  thou  wilt ! 
Sure  me  it  cannot  charm. 

Adieu  !  away,  oh  tea  !  begone  ! 

Salute  our  taste  no  more ; 
Though  thou  art  coveted  by  some 

Who're  destined  to  be  poor. 


1774. 

Thomas  Hutchinson  was  recalled  to  England  early  in  1774,  and 
General  Gage  appointed  as  his  successor  in  the  office  of  governor  of 
Massachusetts  Bay.  On  his  ai-rival  at  Boston,  in  May  of  that  year, 
Gage  immediately  issued  a  proclamation,  calling  upon  the  inhabit- 
ants to  be  loyal,  and  again  return  to  the  friendship  of  an  injured 
sovereign,  assuring  them  at  the  same  time,  that  the  royal  authority 
■would  be  supported  at  all  hazards.  This  proclamation  was  versified 
in  many  parts  of  the  colonies,  and  in  various  instances,  published  as 
a  ballad.  From  among  a  great  number  we  select  the  following, 
which  first  appeared  in  the  Virginia  Gazette,  as  a  "  friendly  warn- 
ing." 

A  PROCLA]\IATION. 

America  !  thou  fractious  nation, 
Attend  thy  master's  proclamation  ! 
Tremble  !  for  know,  I,  Thomas  Gage,' 
Determin'd  came  the  war  to  wage. 


66  A    PROCLAMATION. 

With  the  united  powers  sent  forth, 
Of  Bute,  of  Mansfield,  and  of  North  ; 
To  scourge  your  insolence,  my  choice, 
While  England  mourns  and  Scots  rejoice ! 

Bostonia  first  shall  feel  my  power, 
And  gasping  midst  the  dreadful  shower 
Of  ministerial  rage,  shall  cry. 
Oh,  save  me,  Bute  !  I  yield  !  and  die. 

Then  shall  my  thundering  cannons  rattle, 
My  hardy  veterans  march  to  battle. 
Against  Virginia's  hostile  land. 
To  humble  that  rebellious  band.' 

At  my  approach  her  trembling  swains, 
Shall  quit  well-cultivated  plains, 
To  seek  the  inhospitable  wood ; 
Or  try,  like  swine  of  old,  the  flood. 

Bejoice  !  ye  happy  Scots  rejoice  ! 
Your  voice  lift  up,  a  mighty  voice. 
The  voice  of  gladness  on  each  tongue, 
The  mighty  praise  of  Bute  be  sung. 


A    PROCLAMATION.  67 

The  praise  of  Mansfield,  and  of  North, 
Let  next  your  hymns  of  joy  set  forth. 
Nor  shall  the  rapturous  strain  assuage, 
Till  sung's  your  own  proclaiming  Grage. 

Whistle  ye  pipes  !  ye  drones  drone  on  . 
Ye  bellows  blow  !  Virginia's  won  ! 
Your  Gage  has  won  Virginia's  shore, 
And  Scotia's  sons  shall  mourn  no  more. 

Hail  Middlesex  !  oh  happy  county  !' 
Thou  too  shalt  share  thy  master's  bounty, 
Thy  sons  obedient,  naught  shall  fear, 
Thy  wives  and  widows  drop  no  tear. 

Thrice  happy  peojDle,  ne'er  shall  feel 
The  force  of  unrelenting  steel ; 
What  brute  would  give  the  ox  a  stroke 
Who  bends  his  neck  to  meet  the  yoke  ? 

To  Murray  bend  the  humble  knee  ;* 
He  shall  protect  you  under  me  ; 
His  generous  pen  shall  not  be  mute, 
But  sound  your  praise  thro'  Fox  to  Bute. 


68  A    PROCLAMATION. 

By  Scotchmen  lov'd,  by  Scotchmen  taught, 
By  all  your  country  Scotchmen  thouglit ; 
Fear  Bute,  fear  Mansfield,  North  and  me, 
And  be  as  blest  as  slaves  can  be. 

^  Tremble  I  for  Tmow  /,  Thomas  Gage.  Thomas  Gage  was  the  la;-t 
royal  governor  of  Massachusetts.  He  was  appointed  governor  of 
Montreal  in  1 760,  and  in  1763  was  commissioned  commander-in- 
chief  of  all  the  royal  forces  in  North  America.  In  the  government 
of  Massachusetts,  he  inflicted  the  people  of  Boston  with  the  most 
rigorous  laws  and  restrictions,  thinking  it  a  duty  he  owed  his  king, 
and  his  departure  for  England  in  the  fall  of  1775,  was  hailed,  by 
those  people,  with  unbounded  joy.     He  died  in  1787. 

^  To  humble  that  rehellious  hand.  The  people  of  Virginia  at  all 
times  resisted  the  attempts  of  Parliament  to  tax  them  without  their 
consent.  The  bold  declaration  of  Patrick  Henry,  before  the  House  of 
Burgesses,  in  1764,  that  "  Ccesar  had  his  Brutus — Charles  the  First 
his  Cromwell ;  and  George  the  Third  may  profit  by  their  example," 
still  rang  in  the  ears  of  royalty,  and  the  patriots  were  looked  upon 
as  a   "rebellious  band  that  must  be  broken." 

^  Hail  Middlesex !  oh  hxippy  county !  An  inconsiderable  number 
of  the  inhabitants  of  the  county  of  Middlesex,  in  Virginia,  during 
the  early  part  of  1774,  undertook  to  make  some  resolves,  contradic- 
tory to  the  general  sentiment  of  that  colony.  That  gave  occasion 
to  the  following  production,  written  by  a  "Lady  of  Pennsylvania." 

To  manhood  be  makes  a  vain  pretence, 
Wlio  wants  both  manly  force  and  sense ; 
'Tis  but  the  form  and  not  the  matter. 
According  to  the  schoohiien's  clatter; 
From  such  a  creature,  Heaven  defend  her! 
Each  lady  cries,  no  neuter  gender  ! 
But  when  a  number  of  such  creatures, 
With  woman's  hearts  and  manly  features. 
Their  country's  generous  schemes  perplex, 
I  own  I  hate  this  Middle-sex. 


A    PROCLAMATION.  69 

*  To  Murray  bend  the  humble  knee.  John  ]\Iun-ay,  earl  of  Dun- 
more,  was  governor  of  Virginia  from  1770  till  1775.  In  the  month 
of- April,  1775,  he  removed  the  royal  stores  and  ammunition  at  Wil- 
liamsburg, Virginia,  on  board  some  armed  vessels,  and  afterwards 
abandoned  his  office  and  went  into  active  service  for  the  king.  His 
depredations  and  cruelties,  in  the  southern  colonies,  have  become 
matters  of  history.  Dunmore  sailed  for  England  in  1776,  and  never 
returned  to  America.  He  was  shortly  afterwards  appointed  governor 
of  Bermuda,  but  did  not  remain  there  long,  on  account  of  his  un- 
popularity.    He  died  in  England  in  1809. 


Itarateui  'gmM, 


1 


About  the  middle  of  December,  1774,  deputies  appointed  by  the 
freemen  of  the  province  of  Maryland,  met  at  Annapolis,  unanimous- 
ly resolved  to  resist  the  authority  of  Parliament,  taxing  the  colonies, 
if  attempted  to  be  enforced,  and  to  support  the  acts  and  designs  of 
the  Continental  Congress  at  all  hazards.  They  also  recommended 
that  every  man  should  provide  himself  "  a  good  firelock,  vrith  bay- 
onet attached,  powder  and  ball,  and  be  in  readiness  to  act  in  any 
emergency."  These  resolutions  were  productive  of  many  ludicrous 
and  bombastic  ballads.  From  among  these,  the  one  following, 
adapted  to  the  air  "Abbot  of  Canterbury,  or  Wilkes'  Wriggle,"  is 
selected.^ 

MARYL-\ND  RESOLVES. 

On  Calvert's  plains  new  faction  reigns, 

Great  Britain  we  defy,  sir, 
True  liberty  lies  gagg'd  in  chains, 

Though  freedom  is  the  cry,  sir. 


MARYLAND    RESOLVES.  71 

The  Congress,  and  their  factious  tools, 

Most  wantonly  oppress  us, 
Hypocrisy  triumphant  rules, 

And  sorely  does  distress  us. 

The  British  bands  with  gloTy  crown'd, 

No  longer  shall  withstand  us ; 
Our  martial  deeds  loud  fame  shall  sound 

Since  mad  Lee  now  commands  us." 

Triumphant  soon  a  blow  he'll  strike, 

That  all  the  world  shall  awe,  sir, 
And  General  Gage,  Sir  Perseus  like, 

Behind  his  wheels  he'll  draw,  sir. 

When  Gallic  hosts,  ungrateful  men, 

Our  race^meant  to  extermine, 
Pray  did  committees  save  us  then. 

Or  Hancock,  or  such  vermin  ? 

Then  faction  spurn  !  think  for  yourselves  I 

Your  parent  state,  believe  me. 
From  real  griefs,  from  factious  elves, 

Will  speedily  relieve  ye. 


72  MAllYLAXD    RESOLVES. 


^  Maryland  resolves.  This  song  was  published  in  Rivington's  Ga- 
zette, -svith  the  accompanpng  letter,  from  its  anonymous  author,  to 
the  editor  of  that  paper.  "  You,  no  doubt,  have  seen  the  resolves  of 
certain  magnates,  naming  themselves  a  Provincial  Congress!  I  wiH 
not  say  these  worthies  are  under  the  influence  of  the  moon,  or  arc 
proper  subjects  for  confinement,  but  one  of  their  resolves  is  exactly 
calculated  for  the  meridian  of  the  inquisition,  and  the  others  smell 
furiously  of  Bedlam.  I  gladly  contribute  my  humble  mite  to  ridi- 
cule the  folly,  ingratitude,  and  violence  of  our  deluded  patriots." 

^  Since  mad  Lee  now  co)nmands  us.  Major-general  Charles  Lee, 
was  an  officer  in  the  British  Army,  at  the  age  of  eleven  years.  He 
served  under  Abercrombie,  at  the  unsuccessful  attack  of  Ticonderoga, 
and  was  wounded.  Under  General  Burgoyne,  in  Portugal,  he  dis- 
tinguished himself.  After  this,  he  spent  a  few  years  in  rambling 
over  Europe,  and  some  time  in  the  Polish  service,  finally  sailing  for 
New  York,  where  he  arrived  just  in  time  to  embrace  the  cause  of 
the  Colonists,  which  was  now  grown  serious  and  decided.  He  re- 
ceived a  commission  from  the  Continental  Congress  in  1 775,  and 
was  very  active  during  the  war,  until  the  battle  of  Monmouth,  where 
he  disobeyed  the  orders  of  the  commander-in-chief,  and,  by  this 
means,  threw  the  troops  into  confusion.  He  was  reprimanded  by 
Washington,  and  in  the  warmth  of  his  resentment  used  improper 
language  in  return.  For  this  he  was  tried  by  court  martial,  found 
guilty,  and  suspended  from  duty  for  twelve  months.  He  made  a 
splendid  defence  of  his  course,  but  Congress  confirmed  the  sentence, 
which  was  like  a  mortal  wound  to  his  ambitious  spirit,  \A'hen  he 
heard  the  confirmation  he  exclaimed,  pointing  to  his  dog,  "  Ok  thai 
I  were  that  animal  thai  I  might  not  call  man  my  brother.^  He  becam'; 
vindictive,  and  abused  General  Washing-tn  in  his  conversation  and 
writings.  Finding  himself  abandoned  by  his  friends,  he  retired  to 
his  plantation,  in  Virginia,  where  he  amused  himself  with  his  books 
and  dogs,  and  in  the  autumn  of  1782,  weary  of  his  life,  he  went  to 
Philadelphia,  where  he  died  soon  after,  calling  upon  his  "  brave  crren- 
adiers  to  stand  hy  him.^^ 

In  his  will,  he  earnestly  desired  that  he  might  not  be  buried  in 


MARYLAND    RESOLVES.  73 

any  churchjard,  or  within  one  mile  of  a  Presbyterian  or  Anabap- 
tist meeting-house,  as  he  "  had  kept  so  much  bad  company  when 
alive,  he  did  not  choose  to  continue  it  when  dead." 

Lee's  character  is  very  correctly  portrayed,  in  a  letter  from  Mrs. 
Mercy  Warren  to  Samuel  Adams,  where  she  speaks  of  him  as 
"  plain  in  his  person  to  a  degree  of  ugliness  ;  careless  even  to  unpo- 
liteness ;  his  garb  ordinary ;  his  voice  rough  ;  his  manners  rather 
morose ;  yet  sensible,  learned,  judicious  and  penetrating." 

The  celebrated  Thomas  Paine  once  said,  that  Lee  "  was  above  all 
mmarchs  and  below  all  scum."     Thac1ier''s  Journal, 


f  0PI  telU 


5. 


In  January,  1775,  William  Franklin,  the  governor  of  the  colony 
of  New  Jersey,  addressed  the  legislature,  -vvaming  them  not  to  sanc- 
tion certain  proceedings  connected  with  the  dispute  existing  between 
the  mother  countiy  and  the  colonies,  assuring  them,  that  all  their 
grievances  would  be  redressed  on  petition.  Lieutenant-governor 
Golden,  of  New  York,  followed  in  the  same  path,  and  had  great  suc- 
cess with  the  New  York  Assembly ;  the  majority  of  that  body 
agreeing  not  to  send  delegates  to  the  Congress,  that  was  to  assem- 
ble in  May  of  that  year.  This  success  was  a  triumph  for  the  loyal- 
ists, and  was  the  cause  of  great  rejoicing.  The  following  song  of 
exultation  appeared  a  short  time  after  the  event,  in  the  Gazetteer, 
at  New  York,  and  has  been  attributed  to  Rivington,  the  editor  of 
that  paper  ;  but  without  any  authority. 

LOYAL  YORK. 

And  so,  my  good  master,  I  find  'tis  no  joke, 
For  York  has  stepp'd  forward,  and  tliro-wna  off  the  yoke 
Of  Congress,  committees,  and  even  King  Sears,^ 
Who  shows  you  good  nature,  by  showing  his  ears. 


LOYAL    YOKK.  75 

I  trembled  lest  York  should  have  join'd  the  mad  freak, 

Arid  formed  a  part  of  the  damnable  sneak ; 

The  fever  abated,  see  order  arise, 

With  ag'd  constitutional  tears  in  her  eyes. 

Having  summon'd  her  sons,  who  too  wantonly  stray'd, 
And  calling  her  fair  sister  Grace  to  her  aid. 
The  youth  she  address'd,  in  such  accents  of  love. 
As  coming  from  mothers,  ought  always  to  move. 

Says  she,  "  My  dear  children,  ah  !  why  should  ye  roam, 
In  quest  of  rude  discord,  and  leave  me  at  home  ? 
Your  godfather  Monarchy,  bleeds  at  the  heart, 
To  think  that  his  sons  should  from  virtue  depart. 

"  Consider  how  long  we  have  cherish'd,  protected, 
How  much  we've  indulg'd,  and  how  little  corrected, 
How  oft  we're  provok'd,  and  our  councils  tormented ; 
What  insults  forgiven,  what  bloodshed  prevented. 

"  Behold  your  good  brother,  who  rules  in  the  north, 
Examine  his  conduct  and  copy  his  worth  : 
Observe  how  Apollo  presides,  and  you'll  find, 
How  lovely  are  mercy  and  power  combin'd. 


76  LOYAL    YORK. 

"  His  task,  tliougli  severe,  lie  discharges  with  ease, 
And  studies,  like  us,  to  preserve  and  to  please ; 
Oh  !  think  how  he  feels,  between  brother  and  brother, 
When  he's  sent  to  reconcile  one  to  the  other. 

"  Then  cease,  I  beseech  you,  nor  longer  provoke 
The  hand,  which  so  tenderly  wards  oflF  the  stroke. 
Such  counsel  as  this  was  enough,  one  would  think, 
To  save  them  from  ruin,  though  just  on  the  brink. 

"Bat  would  you  believe,  a  committee  they'd  choose. 
Consisting  of  three,  who  had  nothing  to  lose  ? 
One  was  a  cock  of  the  first  game. 
Who  hand  over  hand  was  determin'd  on  fame. 

"  The  second  A-dam  dog  who  lives  upon  strife, 
And  knows  nought  but  hemp  can  lead  him  a  worse  life  : 
The  third  was  a  Cooper,^  good  Lord,  long  preserve  him, 
Or,  as  I  want  rhyme,  may  his  customers  starve  him ! 

"  Together  they  went  on  a  grand  consultation, 
To  prove  a  republic  was  good  for  the  nation. 
And  to  show  the  old  dame,  it  was  easily  prov'd, 
Pronounced,  by  four  words,  all  objections  remov'd. 


LOYAL    YORK.  77 

"  Inestimable  rights,  infernal  chains," 

A  sleeping  potion  for  a  Briton's  brains. — 

The  aged  matron  silently  withdrew, 

Wept  for  her  sons,  and  left  them,  Gage  !  to  you. 

'  King  Sears.  "  Isaac  Sears  was  born  at  Norwalk,  Connecticut, 
in  1 729.  He  was  a  successful  merchant  in  the  city  of  New  York, 
when  political  matters  attracted  his  attention.  When  the  Stamp 
Act  aroused  the  colonists,  Sears  stood  forth  as  the  champion  of  right, 
and  was  one  of  the  most  active  and  zealous  members  of  the  associa- 
tion of  the  Sons  of  Liberty,"  He  was  celebrated  during  the  war 
for  his  self-denial,  and  devotion  to  the  cause  of  liberty.  He  died 
at  Canton,  where  he  had  gone  with  a  cargo,  in  1785.  Lossing's 
Field  Booh. 

^  The  third  was  a  Cooper.  Dr.  Cooper,  town  clerk  of  Boston,  called 
by  Rivington,  "  the  fragrant  Rose  of  Sharon." 


1775. 

This  beautiful  song  was  very  popular,  both  in  England  and  the 
colonies.  It  was  composed  by  John  Tait,  a  writer  to  the  Signet, 
and,  for  some  time,  a  judge  in  one  of  the  minor  courts  at  Edinbitrgh. 
It  is  adapted  to  the  Irish  air  called  Langolee.  The  song  has  often, 
though  erroneously,  been  attributed  to  the  Rev.  John  Home,  author 
of  the  tragedy  of  "  Douglass."  It  was  first  printed  in  the  Peim- 
sylvania  Ledger,  at  Philadelphia,  and  also  inserted  in  Wilson's  col- 
lection, published  at  Edinburgh  in  1779,  with  some  additional  stan- 
zas, written  by  a  lady ;  but  her  verses  are  far  inferior  to  the  original. 

BANKS  OF  THE  DEE.^ 

'TwAS  summer,  and  softly  the  breezes  were  blowing, 
And  sweetly  the  nightingale  sang  from  the  tree. 
At  the  foot  of  a  hill,  where  the  river  was  flowing, 
I  sat  myself  down  on  the  banks  of  the  Dee." 


ox    THE    BANKS    OF    THE    DEE.  79 

Flow  on,  lovely  Dee,  flow  on  thou  sweet  river, 
Tiiy  banks,  purest  stream,  shall  be  dear  to  me  ever, 
For  there  I  first  gain'd  the  affection  and  favor 
Of  Jamie,  the  glory  and  pride  of  the  Dee. 

But  now  he's  gone  from  me,  and  left  me  thus  mourning, 
.  To  quell  the  proud  rebels,  for  valiant  is  he ; 
But  ah !  there's  no  hope  of  his  speedy  returning, 
To  wander  again  on  the  banks  of  the  Dee : 
He's  gone,  hapless  youth,  o'er  the  rude  roaring  billows, 
The  kindest,  the  sweetest,  of  all  his  brave  fellows ; 
And  left  me  to  stray  'mongst  these  once  loved  willows, 
The  loneliest  lass  on  the  banks  of  the  Dee. 

But  time  and  my  prayers  may  perhaps  yet  restore  him. 
Blest  peace  may  restore  my  dear  lover  to  me. 
And  when  he  returns,  with  such  care  I'll  watch  o'er  him, 
He  never  shall  leave  the  sweet  banks  of  the  Dee. 
The  Dee  then  will  flow,  all  its  beauty  displaying. 
The  lambs  on  its  banks  will  again  be  seen  playing. 
Whilst  I,  with  my  Jamie,  am  carelessly  straying, 
And  tasting  again  all  the  sweets  of  the  Dee. 

'  The  hanks  of  the  Dee  was  written  in   1775,  on  the   departure  of 
a  friend  for  America,  to  join  the  British  forces,  who  were,  at  that 


80  BANKS    OF    THE    DEE. 

time,  endeavoring  "to  quell  the  proud  rebels"  of  Columbia  ;  but  the 
issue  of  that  contest  was  very  different  from  the  anticipations  of  the 
bard. 

^  The  hanks  of  the  Dee.  Robert  Birms,  in  a  letter  to  George 
Thomson,  dated  7th  Aplil,  1793,  says,  "  The  hanks  of  the  Dee,  is,  you 
know,  literally  Langolee,  to  slow  time.  The  song  is  well  enough,  but 
has  some  false  imagery  in  it,  for  instance, 

'And  sweetly  tbe  nightingale  sang  from  the  tree.' 

"  In  the  first  place,  the  nightingale  sings  in  a  low  bush,  but  never 
from  a  tree  ;  and  in  the  second  place,  there  never  was  a  nightingale 
seen  or  heard  on  the  banks  of  the  Dee,  or  on  the  banks  of  any  other 
river  in  Scotland.  Exotic  rural  imagery  is  always  comparatively 
flat." 

The  justice  of  these  remarks  seems  to  have  been  allowed  by  Mr. 
Tait ;  for  in  a  new  edition  of  the  song,  retouched  by  himself,  some 
years  after,  for  Mr.  Thomson's  collection,  the  first  half  stanza  is 
printed  thus : — 

"  'Twas  summer,  and  softly  the  breezes  were  blowing, 
And  sweetly  the  wood  pigeon  coo'd  from  the  tree. 
At  the  foot  of  a  rock,  where  the  wild  rose  was  growing, 
I  sat  myself  down  on  the  banks  of  the  Dee." 

Shenstonea  Lyrics. 


1775. 

This  excellent  parody  is  attributed  to  Oliver  Arnold,^  a  native 
of  Norwich,  Connecticut,  and  a  kinsman  of  tlue  traitor.  He  wrote 
much  doggerel  during  his  time,  some  .of  which  is  quite  good,  and 
was,  at  the  time,  very  popular. 

BANKS  OF  THE  DEE. 

TwAS  winter,  and  blue  tory  noses  were  freezing, 
As  they  march'd  o'er  the  land  where  they  ought  not  to  be ; 
The  valiants  complain'd  at  the  fifers'  curs'd  wheezing. 
And  wish'd  they'd  remain'd  on  the  banks  of  the  Dee. 
Lead  on  thou  paid  captain  !  tramp  on  thou  proud  minions ! 
Thy  ranks,  basest  men,  shall  be  strung  like  ripe  onions, 
For  here  thou  hast  found  heads  with  warlike  opinions, 
On  the  shoulders  of  nobles  who  ne'er  baw  the  Dee. 


82  BANKS    OF    THE    DEE. 

Prepare  for  war's  conflict ;  or  make  preparation 

For  peace  with  the  rebels,  for  they're  brave  and  glee ; 

Keep  mindful  of  dying,  and  leave  the  foul  nation 

That  sends  out  its  armies  to  brag  and  to  flee. 

Make  haste,  now,  and  leave  us  thou  miscreant  tories  ! 

To  Scotland  repair !  there  court  the  sad  houris, 

And  listen  once  more  to  their  plaints  and  their  s,tories 

Concerning  the  ''glory  and  pride  of  the  Dee." 

Be  quiet  and  sober,  secure  and  contented  : 
Upon  your  own  land,  be  valiant  and  free ; 
Bless  God,  that  the  war  is  so  nicely  prevented, 
And  till  the  green  fields  on  the  banks  of  the  Dee. 
The  Dee  then  will  flow,  all  its  beauty  displaying, 
The  lads  on  its  banks  will  again  be  seen  playing. 
And  England  thus  honestly  taxes  defraying, 
With  natural  drafts  from  the  banks  of  the  Dee. 

^  Oliver  Ai^nold,  ^vas  celebrated  for  his  ready  wit  at  repartee.  At 
the  time  Joel  Barlow,  (who  was  on  terms  of  intimacy  with  him,) 
was  enjoying  much  notoriety,  for  his  revised  and  altered  edition  of 
Watts's  Psalms  and  Hymns,  Ai-nold  presented  him  with  the  followiug 
stanzas : 

"  You've  proved  yourself  a  sinful  cre'tur ; 
YouVe  murder'd  Watts  and  spoil'd  the  metre  ; 
You've  tried  the  word  of  God  to  alter, 
And  for  your  pa.ns  deserve  a  halt^er." 


Sikrtg's  Call 


1775. 

The  authorship  of  this  chaste  ballad  has  been  assigned  to  one 
Jere.  Sargent,  of  Philadelphia,  a  person  of  whom  httle  is  known  ; 
and  also  to  Francis  Hopkinson,  the  author  of  "  The  Battle  of 
the  Kegs."  But,  it  is  most  probable,  that  it  was  written  by  the 
"eccentric  John  Mason,"  '  an  operative  in  the  office  of  the  Pennsyl- 
vania Packet,  the  newspaper  in  which  it  first  appeared.  The  lat-e 
Mr.  Hunnewell,  of  Watertown,  Massachusetts,  well  remembered  its 
popularity,  and  attributed  it  to  Mason. 


LIBERTY'S  CALL. 

High  on  the  banks  of  Delaware, 

Fair  Liberty  she  stood ; 
And  waving  with  her  lovely  hand, 

Cried,  "  Still,  thou  roaring  flood. 


84 


Be  still  je  winds,  be  still  ye  seas, 

Let  only  zephyrs  play  ! "' 
Just  as  she  spoke,  they  all  obeyed ; 

And  thus  the  maid  did  say  : 

"  Welcome  my  friends,  from  every  land 
Where  freedom  doth  not  reign ; 
Oh  !  hither  fly  from  every  clime, 
Sweet  liberty  to  gain. 

"  Mark  Londonderry's  brave  defence 
'Gainst  tyranny  that  swayed  ; 
Americans,  the  example's  great ! 
Like  them,  be  not  dismayed. 

"  Expect  not  that  on  downy  beds, 
This  boon  you  can  secure ; 
At  perils  smile,  rouse  up  your  souls ' 
War's  dangers  to  endure. 

"  'Gainst  your  affronted  land  behold 
Oppression  rear  its  head ; 
In  hydra-form  and  battle's  din. 
Each  trembling  slave  to  dread. 


liberty's  call.  S5 

"  But  ye,  its  sons,  will  ne'er  give  up 
Your  parent  fires  till  death  ; 
Behold  !  yon  beauteous  virgins  seek 
Laurel  your  brows  to  wreathe. 

"  Bear  on  your  minds  the  noble  deeds 
Your  ancestors  achieved  ; 
How  many  worthy  Britons  bled, 
To  have  their  children  freed ! 

"  See  on  the  meteors  of  the  night 
Their  spirits  wanly  fly  ! 
Boused  from  their  graven  by  your  distress ; 
Hark  !  thus  I  heard  them  cry. 

"  *  Was  it  for  this,  ye  mothers  dear  ! 
Ye  nursed  your  tender  babes  ? 
Was  it  for  this,  our  yet  loved  sons ! 
We  sheathed  our  trusty  blades  ? 

"  '  0  !  genius  of  our  ancient  times  ! 
Be  thou  our  children's  guide, 
To  arms  !  to  arms  ! ' — They  call  to  arms, 
And  stalk  in  martial  pride. 


86  llbbrty's  call. 

"  I  will  them  guide,  ye  reverend  sires ! 
Go  to  your  tombs  in  peace ; 
The  rage  of  proud  usurping  men, 
Your  sons  shall  yet  repress. 

"  Hold  up  your  heads,  ye  weeping  fair  ! 
Their  swords  are  on  their  thighs ; 
Smile  yet  again,  ye  lovely  babes  ! 
Their  banner's  in  the  skies. 

"  I  come,  I  come,  to  join  your  train ; 
Heaven's  ministers  I  see  ; 
Farewell,  my  friends,  be  not  afraid  ! 
Be  virtuous  and  be  free  !  " 

Heaven's  portals  opened  as  she  soared, 

And  angels  thence  did  come ; 
With  heavenly  songs  and  golden  harps. 

The  G-oddess  welcomed  home. 

^  Eccentric  John  Mason.  This  gentleman  was  a  native  of  Mary- 
land. In  early  life  he  went  to  Philadelphia,  where  little  was  known 
of  him,  until  he  commenced  work  at  the  office  cf  Dunlap's  Pennsyl- 
vania Packet,  a  paper  strenuously  devoted  to  the  cause  of  liberty. 
During  the  earlier  part  of  the  Revolution,  ISIason  was  accustomed, 
privately,  to  print  and  circulate   squibs,  pasquinades  and  epigrams, 


liberty's  call.  87 


bearing  severely  on  the  royal  cause,  and  in  a  measure  gained  the 
hatred  of  many  friends  of  the  crown,  whom  he  often  made  the  sub- 
ject of  his  ridicule.  He  combined  the  trade  of  a  printer  with  that 
of  an  upholsterer,  and  kept  a  shop  in  Arch  street,  Philadelphia, 
opposite  the  gate  of  the  Friends'  buiying-ground,  where  he  carried 
on  "  Upholstery  in  all  its  various  branches,"  besides  making  his  shop 
a  depot  for  the  circulation  of  his  "  little  billets  of  ridicule."  On  the 
approach  of  the  British,  in  1777,  Mason  removed  his  store  from  the 
city,  and  abandoned  for  ever  the  "  setting  of  types."  About  one  year 
after,  the  following  advertisement  appeared  in  his  old  friend,  the 
Pennsylvania  Packet : 

"John  Mason,  Upholder, 
"  Carries  on  the  Upholdstery  business  in  all  its  various  branches,  and 
shall  be  extremely  obliged  to  those  noble  and  generous  ladies  and 
gentlemen  who  delight  in  employing  the  industrious. 

"  Said  Mason  begs  leave  to  inform  his  former  friends  and  cus- 
tomers, that  when  the  enemy  marched  into  this  city,  he,  the  said 
Mason,  marched  out,  and  since  that  time  has  had  many  a  march 
and  covmter-march,  and  now  has  had  the  happiness  to  march  back 
again  to  a  city  where  slavery  could  not  thrive,  because  there  liberty 
springs  spontaneous. 

"  Ah !  slavery,  how  loved,  how  valued 
Once,  avails  thee  not ;  to  whom 
Eclated  or  by  whom  begot ; 
A  painful  nuisance  aloxe 

Eemains  of  thee. 

'Tis  all  thou  art,  and  it  is  all 

Thy  proud  friends  and  abettors  shall  be." 


^10M 

FOR    LITTLE    MASTERS    AND    MISSES. 
1775. 

This  production  appeared  in  a  ballad  sheet  in  the  early  part  of 
1775,  and  was  afterwards  reprinted  in  the  Constitutional  Gazette, 
with  a  slight  abridgment  in  the  text. 

ALPHABET. 

A,  stands  for  Americans,  who  scorn  to  be  slaves ; 

B,  for  Boston,  where  fortitude  their  freedom  saves ; 

C,  stands  for  Congress,  which,  though  loyal,  will  be  free; 

D,  stands  for  defence,  'gainst  force  and  tyranny. 

Stand  firmly,  A  and  Z, 

We  swear  for  ever  to  be  free ! 

E,  stands  for  evils,  which  a  civil  war  must  bring ; 

F,  stands  for  fate,  dreadful  to  both  people  and  king  ; 

G,  stands  for  George,  may  God  give  him  wisdom  and 

grace ; 
H,  stands  for  hypocrite,  who  wears  a  double  face. 


ALPHABET.  89 

J,  stands  for  justice,  which  traitors  in  power  defy, 
K,  stands  for  king,  who  should  to  such  the  axe  apply ; 
L,  stands  for  London,  to  its  country  ever  true, 
M,  stands  for  Mansfield,  who  hath  another  view. 

N ,  stands  for  North,  who  to  the  House  the  mandate  brings, 
0,  stands  for  oaths,  binding  on  subjects  not  on  kings : 
P,  stands  for  people,  who  their  freedom  should  defend, 
Q,  stands  for  quere^  when  will  England's  troubles  end  ? 

R,  stands  for  rebels,  not  at  Boston  but  at  home, 
S,  stands  for  Stuart,  sent  by  Whigs  abroad  to  roam, 
T,  stands  for  Tories,  who  may  try  to  bring  them  back, 
Y,  stands  for  villains,  who  have  well  deserved  the  rack. 

W,  stands  for  Wilkes,  who  us  from  warrants  saved, 
Y,  for  York,  the  New,  half  corrupted,  half  enslaved, 
Z,  stands  for  Zero,  but  means  the  Tory  minions, 
Who  threatens  us  with  fire  and  sword,  to  bias  our  opinions. 

Stand  firmly  A  and  Z, 

We  swear  for  ever  to  be  free  ! 


17  75. 

The  autlior  of  this  ballad  is  unknown.  It  appeared  originally  in 
the  "  Poet's  Corner "  of  Dunlap's  Packet,  as  the  "  Pennsylvania 
March,  to  thelune  of  the  Scots'  song,  "  /  winna  marry  ony  lad,  bid 
Sandy  o'er  the  lea." 

PENNSYLVANL4  SONG. 

We  are  the  troop  that  ne'er  will  stoop 

To  wretched  slavery, 
Nor  shall  our  seed,  by  our  base  deed 

Despised  vassals  be  ; 
Freedom  we  will  bequeathe  to  them, 

Or  we  will  bravely  die  ; 
Our  greatest  foe,  ere  long  shall  know, 
How  much  did  Sandwich  lie. 

And  all  the  world  shall  know, 

Americans  are  free ; 
Nor  slaves  nor  cowards  we  will  prove, 
Great  Britain  soon  shall  see. 


PENiNS¥LVAXIA    SONG.  9] 

We'll  not  give  up  our  birthright, 

Our  foes  shall  find  us  men ; 
As  good  as  they,  in  any  shape. 

The  British  troops  shall  ken. 
Huzza  !  brave  boys,  we'll  beat  them 

On  any  hostile  plain  ; 
For  freedom,  wives,  and  children  dear, 

The  battle  we'll  maintain. 

What !  can  those  British  tyrants  think, 

Our  fathers  cross'd  the  main. 
And  savage  foes,  and  dangers  met. 

To  be  enslav'd  by  them  ? 
If  so,  they  are  mistaken, 

For  we  will  rather  die ; 
And  since  they  have  become  our  foes. 
Their  forces  we  defy. 

And  ail  the  world  shall  know, 

Americans  are  free, 
Nor  slaves  nor  cowards  we  will  prove, 
G-reat  Britain  soon  shall  sec. 


%\t  Irislrmait's  (&p$tlL 

1775. 

This  happy  production  of  "  Paddy,"  must  have  been  very  popu- 
lar with  "  the  rebels,"  as  there  were  four  different  editions  of  it  pub- 
lished as  broadsides,  a  short  time  after  its  first  appearance,  in  the 
Pennsylvania  Magazine.  The  version  subjoined,  was  printed  in 
May,  1775,  and  differs  slightly  in  langniage  from  that  contained  in 
the  periodical. 

THE  EPISTLE  TO  THE  TROOPS  IN   BOSTON. 

By  my  faith,  but  I  think  ye're  all  makers  of  bulls. 

With  your  brains  in  your  breeches,  your in  your 

skulls, 
Get  home  with  your  musket^  and  put  up  your  swords, 
And  look  in  your  books  for  the  meaning  of  words. 
You  see  now,  my  honies,  how  much  your  mistaken, 
For  Concord  by  discord'  can  never  be  beaten. 


93 


How  brave  ye  went  out  with  your  muskets  all  bright, 
And  thought  to  be-frighten  the  folks  with  the  sight ; 
But  when  you  got  there  how  they  powder'd  your  pums, 

And  all  the  way  home  how  they  pepper'd  your , 

x\nd  is  it  not,  honeys,  a  comical  crack, 

To  be  proud  in  the  face,  and  be  shot  in  the  back. 


How  come  ye  to  think,  now,  they  did  not  know  how,'^ 
To  be  after  their  firelocks  as  smartly  as  you  ? 
Why,  you  see  now,  my  honies,  'tis  nothing  at  all, 
But  to  pull  at  the  trigger,  and  pop  goes  the  ball. 

And  what  have  you  got  now  with  all  your  designing. 
But  a  town  without  victuals  to  sit  down  and  dine  in ; 
And  to  look  on  the  ground  like  a  parcel  of  noodles. 
And  sing,  how  the  Yankees  have  beaten  the  Doodles. 
I'm  sure  if  you're  wise  you'll  make  peace  for  a  dinner. 
For  fighting  and  fasting  will  soon  make  ye  thinner. 

^  " F(yr  Concord  hy  discord"  &c.  Puns  upon  the  word  Concord 
were  numberless,  after  the  action  of  the  nineteenth  of  April,  1775. 
The  following  appeared  as  "an  anecdote,"  shortly  after  that  action. 
"  When  the  emigrants  and  adventurers  first  came  to  America,  they 
met  on  the  shore  with  Calvinists,  Huguenots,  Papists  and  Protestants. 
Such  a  medley  of  people,  of  different  tenets  and  persuasions,  pro- 
mised much  discord  ;  however,  good  sense  prevailed,  and  they  unan- 


94 


imously  agreed  that  no  difference  in  opinion  should  disturb  the  pub- 
lic tranqmllitv,  but  that  they  would  live  in  all  brotherly  love  with 
each  other,  and  they  named  the  first  founded  spot,  and  town.  Con- 
cord. Is  it  not  whimsical,  that  upon  this  spot  they  should  first 
draw  blood,  and  gallantly  contend  for  the  rights  and  liberties  of 
America  ? 

^  They  did  not  hnow  how.  The  following  brief  account  of  the  af- 
fairs at  Lexington  and  Concord,  is  taken  from  a  letter  dated  Boston, 
April  19,  1775.  '•  Last  night,  at  about  eleven  o'clock,  one  thousand 
of  the  best  troops,  in  a  very  secret  manner,  rowed  up  the  Cambridge 
River,  and  landed.  From  whence  they  marched  to  Lexington, 
where  they  saw  a  number  of  men  exercising.  They  ordered  them 
to  disperse,  and  immediately  fired  on  them ;  killed  eight  men  on 
the  spot,  and  then  marched  to  Concord.  This  alarmed  the  country 
so,  that  it  seemed  as  if  men  came  down  from  the  clouds.  This  news 
coming  to  town,  General  Gage  sent  out  another  thousand  men,  with 
a  large  train  of  artillery.  In  the  mean  time,  those  troops  at  Con- 
cord had  set  fire  to  the  court-house.  There  an  engagement  ensued, 
and  the  King's  troops  retreated  very  fast,  until  they  were  reinforced 
with  the  troops  the  General  had  sent :  but  they  did  not  stand  long 
before  the  whole  body  gave  way ;  retreating,  and  our  men  keeping 
up  at  their  heels,  loading  and  firing,  until  they  got  to  Charlestown, 
when  our  people  thought  it  not  prudent  to  come  any  further,  fearing 
the  ships  in  the  harbor  would  be  ordered  to  fire  on  Boston  and 
Charlestown.  Our  men  behaved  gallantly."  One  poor  fellow,  who 
had  received  a  wound  in  his  breast,  in  following  up  the  retreat,  was 
ojffered  assistance  by  a  brother  soldier,  when  he  remarked,  "  I  am 
beyond  your  assistance  —  pursue  the  enemy  !  "  —  and  with  these 
words  on  his  lips,  feU  back  and  died. — Virginia  Gazette. 


1775. 

During  the  battle,  upon  this  hill,  the  village  of  Charlestown  was 
destroyed.  The  subjoined  lyric,  commemorating  the  event,  has  been 
attributed  to  Joel  Barlow.  He  composed  various  patriotic  songs, 
many  of  which  are  familiar.  On  entering  the  army,  he  wrote, 
"  I  do  not  know,  whether  I  shall  do  more  for  the  cause  in  the  capa- 
city of  chaplain,  than  I  could  in  that  of  poet ;  I  have  great  faith  in 
the  influence  of  songs  ;  and  shall  continue,  while  fulfilling  the  duties 
of  my  appointment,  to  write  one  now  and  then,  and  to  encourage 
the  taste  for  them  which  I  find  in  the  camp.  One  good  song  is 
worth  a  dozen  addresses  or  proclamations."  ^ 

THE  BURNING  OF  CHARLESTOWN. 

Palmyra's  prospect,  with  her  tumbling  walls, 
Huge  piles  of  ruin  lieap'd  on  every  side, 

From  eacli  beholder,  tears  of  pity  calls. 
Sad  monuments,  extending  far  and  wide. 


96  TELE    KURXIXG    OF    CHARLESTOWN. 

Yet  far  more  dismal  to  the  patriot's  eye, 

The  drear  remains  of  Charlestown's  former  show, 

Behind  whose  walls  did  hundred  warriors  die^ 
And  Britain's  centre  felt  the  fatal  blow. 

To  see  a  tovrn  so  elegantly  form'd, 

Such  buildings  graced  with  every  curious  art, 
Spoil'd  in  a  moment,  on  a  sudden  storm'd, 

Must  fill  with  indignation  every  heart. 

But  when  we  find  the  reasons  of  her  fate 
To  be  but  trifling  —  trifling  did  I  say  ? 

For  being  noble !  daring  to  be  great, 
Nor  calmly  yielding  to  tyrannic  sway  ! 

To  see  the  relics  of  that  once  famed  place, 
Pointing  to  Heaven,  as  'twere  in  ardent  cry, 

By  lawless  power  robb'd  of  every  grace. 

Yet  calling  bolts  of  vengeance  from  on  high : 

To  find,  I  say,  such  dealings  with  mankind, 
To  see  those  royal  robbers  planted  near 

Those  glorious  buildings,  turning  into  wind. 
And  loath  to  mingle  with  the  common  air. 


THE    BUKMNG    OF    CHAPLE6T0\VN.  97 

And  sucJi  chastisement  coming  from  a  state 

Who  calls  herself  our  parent,  nurse,  and  friend — 

Must  rouse  each  soul  that's  noble,  frank,  and  great, 
And  urge  us  on  our  lives  and  all  to  spend ! 

Oh  !  spot  once  graceful ;  but,  alas  !  no  more  ; 

Till  signs  shall  end,  and  time  itself  shall  cease, 
Thy  name  shall  live,  and  on  fame's  pinions  soar. 

To  mark  grim  blackness  on  Grreat  Britain's  face. 

Nor  shall  the  blood  of  heroes  on  the  plain, 
Who  nobly  fell  that  day  in  freedom's  cause, 

Lie  unreveng'd,  though  with  thy  thousands  slain,^ 
Whilst  there's  a  King  who  fears  nor  minds  thy  laws. 

Shall  Cain  who  madly  spilt  his  brother's  blood. 
Receive  such  curses  from  the  God  of  all  ? 

Is  not  that  Sovereign  still  as  just  and  good. 
To  hear  the  cries  of  children  when  they  call  ? 

Yes,  there's  a  Grod  whose  laws  are  still  the  same, 
Whose  years  are  endless,  and  his  power  is  great ; 

He  is  our  Grod  :  Jehovah  is  his  name ; 

With  him  we  trust  our  sore  oppressed  state. 
5 


98  THE    BURNING    OF    CHARLESTOWN, 

When  he  shall  rise  (oh,  Britain,  dread  the  day, 
Nor  can  I  stretch  the  period  of  thy  fate) ; 

What  heart  of  steel,  what  tyrant  then  shall  sway, 
A  throne  that's  sinking  by  oppression's  weight? 

Thy  crimes,  oh  North,  shall  then  like  spectres  stand, 
Nor  Charlestown  hindmost  in  the  ghastly  roll. 

And  faithless  Gage,  who  gave  the  dread  command, 
Shall  find  dire  torments  gnaw  upon  his  soul. 

Yea,  in  this  world,  we  trust  that  ills  so  dread. 
Which  fills  the  nation  with  such  matchless  woes, 

Shall  fall  with  double  vengeance  on  thy  head. 

Nor  'scape  those  minions  which  thy  court  compose. 

^  Curiosities  of  American  Literature,  by  Rufus  W.  Griswold. 
^  Thy  thousands  slain.     Shortly  after  the  battle  of  Breed's  Hill, 
the  following  epigi-ara  appeared  on  a  large  handbill : 

"  The  modem  veni,  vidi,  vici. 

We  came,  we  saw,  but  could  not  beat. 
And  so — we  sounded  a  retreat ; 
On  Eoxbury  Hill  again  we  saw  -em. 
And  did,  like  devils,  clapper-claw  'em  ; 
But  warlike  casuists  can't  discuss. 
If  we  beat  them,  or  they  beat  us ; 
We  swear  we  beat,  they  swear  we  lie, 
Well  tell  you  more  on't  bye  and  bye." 


Jitam'0  lall: 


I 


THE    TRIP   TO    CAMBRIDGE. 
1775. 

Notwithstanding  the  prominent  position  in  which  General  "Wash- 
ington was  placed  at  the  head  of  an  undisciplined  army,  and  the 
effect  which  that  position  produced  upon  the  minds  of  the  well  regu- 
lated and  disdainful  royal  troops,  he  was  the  subject  of  a  very  few 
ludicrous  ballads.  The  ministerial  writers  generally  burlesqued  the 
great  common  interests  of  the  people,  in  their  productions,  or  com- 
prehended the  whole  race  of  patriots  as  one  rebd  collection. 

TRIP  TO  CAMBRIDGE. 

When  Congress  sent  great  Washington  ^ 
All  clothed  in  power  and  breeches, 

To  meet  old  Britain's  warlike  sons 
And  make  some  rebel  speeches ; 


100  TRIP    TO    CAMBRIDGE. 

'Twas  then  he  took  his  gloomy  way " 
Astride  his  dapple  donkeys, 

And  travelled  well,  both  night  and  day, 
Until  he  reach' d  the  Yankees 

Away  from  camp,  'bout  three  miles  oflF, 
From  Lily  he  dismounted,^ 

His  sergeant  brush'd  his  sun-burnt  wig 
While  he  the  specie  counted. 

All  prinked  up  in  full  bag-wig; 

The  shaking  notwithstanding. 
In  leathers  tight,  oh  !  glorious  sight ! 

He  reach'd  the  Yankee  landing.* 

The  women  ran,  the  darkeys  too ; 

And  all  the  bells,  they  tolled  ; 
For  Britain's  sons,  by  Doodle  doo, 

We're  sure  to  be — consoled. 

Old  mother  Hancock  with  a  pan 
All  crowded  full  of  butter, 

Unto  the  lovely  Georgius  ran, 
And  added  to  the  splutter. 


» 


TRIP    TO    CAMBRIDGE.  lOl 

Says  she,  "  Our  brindle  has  just  calved, 

And  John  is  wondrous  happy. 
He  sent  this  present  to  you,  dear, 

As  you're  the  '  country's  papa.'  " — 

"  You'll  butter  bread  and  bread  butter, 

But  do  not  butt  your  speeches. 
"  You'll  butter  bread  and  bread  butter, 

But  do  not  grease  your  breeches." 

Full  many  a  child  went  into  camp. 

All  dressed  in  homespun  kersey. 
To  see  the  greatest  rebel  scamp 

That  ever  cross'd  o'er  Jersey. 

The  rebel  clowns,  oh  !  what  a  sight ! 

Too  awkward  was  their  figure. 
'Twas  yonder  stood  a  pious  wight. 

And  here  and  there  a  nigger. 

Upon  a  stump,  he  placed  (himself,) 

Great  Washington  did  he. 
And  through  the  nose  of  lawyer  Close  * 

Proclaimed  great  Liberty.^ 


102 


TRIP    TO    CAMBRIDGE. 


The  patriot  brave,  the  patriot  fair, 

From  fervor  had  grown  thinner, 
So  off  they  march' d,  with  patriot  zeal, 
And  took  a  patriot  dinner/ 

^  When  Congress  sent  great  Washington.  Washington  was  appointed 
by  the  Continental  Congress,  "  General  and  Commander-in-chief  of 
all  the  troops  raised  and  to  be  raised,  for  the  defence  of  the  United 
Colonies,"  in  June  1775,  and  immediately  set  off  to  join  the  main 
army,  which  was  at  Cambridge,  Massachusetts. 

^  ^Twas  then  he  tooh  his  gloomy  way.  On  the  journey  he  was  treated 
with  the  highest  honors  in  every  place  through  which  he  passed. 
Volunteers  of  gentlemen  and  ladies  often  escorting  him  through  their 
villages. 

^  From  Lily  he  dismounted.  "  The  delicate  name  of  this  donkey 
was  probably  suggested  to  Washington  by  the  whiteness  of  its  hide, 
which  was  pretty  well  exposed  to  the  weather,  from  the  constant 
chafing  of  the  articles  with  which  it  was  ladened,  and  by  mange, 
which  through  the  mysterious  operations  of  nature,  and  bad  care, 
will  appear  on  the  outer  wall  of  the  animal  kingdom." 

Author  of  the  Song. 

*  He  reaclid  the.  Yankee  landing.  He  an-ived  at  Cambridge  on 
the  3d  of  July,  where  he  was  received  with  every  mark  of  respect 
by  the  people,  and  the  joyful  acclamations  of  the  soldiers. 

^  Lawyer  Close.     This  must  refer  to  the  general's  aid,  Major  Lee. 

®  Proclaimed  great  Liberty.  At  the  head  of  his  army,  he  issued  a 
proclamation,  of  which  the  following  is  part :  "  In  our  own  native 
land,  in  defence  of  the  freedom  which  is  our  birthright,  and  which 
we  ever  enjoyed  till  the  late  violation  of  it,  we  have  taken  up  arms ; 
we  shall  lay  them  down  when  hostilities  shall  cease  on  the  part  of 
the  aggressors,  and  all  danger  of  their  being  renewed,  shall  be  re- 
moved ;  and  not  before." 

'''  A  patriot  dinner.  "  Com  pudding  and  Yankee  iimi,  a  great 
promoter  of  rebellion  and  riot."     Author  of  the  Song. 


^  gtto  Sffng. 


1775. 

J.  W.  Hewlings,  the  author  of  this  ballad  "  on  the  present  criti- 
cal times,"  was  a  native  of  Nansemond,  Virginia,  where  he  died,  in 
the  early  part  of  the  year  1793. 


AMERICAN  "HEAB.TS  OF  OAK." 

Come  rouse  up  my  lads,  and  join  this  great  cause, 
In  defence  of  your  liberty,  your  property,  and  laws  I 
'Tis  to  honor  we  call  you,  stand  up  for  your  right, 
And  ne'er  let  our  foes  say,  we  are  put  to  the  flight. 

For  so  just  is  our  cause,  and  so  valiant  our  men, 
We  always  are  ready,  steady  boys,  steady ; 
We'll  fight  for  our  freedom  again  and  again. 


104  AMERICAN    "  HEARTS    OF    OAK." 

The  Scotch  politicians  have  laid  a  deep  scheme, 
By  invading  America  to  bring  Charlie  in ; 
And  if  the  Scotch  mist's  not  remov'd  from  the  throne, 
The  crown's  not  worth  wearing,  the  kingdom's  undone. 

The  placemen,  and  commoners,  have  taken  a  bribe 
To  betray  their  own  country,  and  the  empire  beside ; 
And  though  the  colonies  stand  condemned  by  some, 
There  are  no  rebels  here,  but  are  traitors  at  home. 

The  arbitrary  minister,  he  acts  as  he  please. 
He  wounds  our  constitution,  and  breaks  through  our  laws ; 
His  troops  they  are  landed,  his  ships  they  are  moor'd. 
But  boys  all  stand  together,  they  will  fall  by  the  sword. 

The  great  Magna  Charta  is  wounded  severe ; 
By  accounts  from  the  doctors,  'tis  almost  past  cure. 
Let's  defend  it  with  the  sword,  or  die  with  the  braves, 
For  we  had  better  die  in  freedom,  than  live  and  be  slaves. 

They  tax  us  contrary  to  reason  and  right, 

Expecting  that  we  are  not  able  to  fight ; 

But  to  draw  their  troop  home,  I  do  think  would  be  best, 

For  Providence  always  defends  the  oppress'd. 


AMERICAN    "  HEARTS    OF    OAK."  105 

The  valiant  Bostonians  have  enter'd  the  field, 

And  declare  they  will  fall  there  before  they  will  yield ; 

A  noble  example  !     In  them  we'll  confide, 

We'll  march  to  their  town,  stand  or  fall  by  their  side. 

An  union  through  the  colonies  will  ever  remain, 

And  ministerial  taxation  will  be  but  in  vain, 

For  we  are  all  resolved  to  die  or  be  free ; 

So  they  may  repeal  the  acts,  for  repeal'd  they  must  be. 


1775. 

A  NEW  SONG  TO  AN  OLD  TmE. 

What  a  court,  hath  old  England,  of  folly  and  sin, 
Spite  of  Chatham  and  Camden,  Barre,  Burke,  Wilkes 

and  G-lynn ! 
Not  content  with  the  game  act,  they  tax  fish  and  sea, 
And  America  drench  with  hot  water  and  tea. 
Derry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 

Lord  Sandwich,  he  swears  they  are  terrible  cowards, 
Who  can't  be  made  brave  by  the  blood  of  the  Howards ; 
And  to  prove  there  is  truth  in  America's  fears. 
He  conjures  Sir  Peter's  ghost  'fore  the  peers. 


A  NEW  SONG  TO  AN  OLD  TUNE.         107 

Now,  indeed,  if  these  poor  people's  nerves  are  so  weak, 
How  cruel  it  is  their  destruction  to  seek ! 
Dr.  Johnson's  a  proof,  in  the  highest  degree, 
His  soul  and  his  system  were  changed  by  tea. 

But  if  the  wise  council  of  England  doth  think, 
They  may  be  enslaved  by  the  power  of  drink, 
They're  right  to  enforce  it ;  but  then,  do  you  see  ? 
The  Colonies,  too,  may  refuse  and  be  free. 

There's  no  knowing  where  this  oppression  will  stop ; 
Some  say — there's  no  cure  but  a  capital  chop ; 
And  that  I  belie ve's  each  American's  wish, 
Since  you've  drench'd  them  with  tea,  and  depriv'd  'em 
of  fish. 

The  birds  of  the  air,  and  the  fish  of  the  sea, 
By  the  gods,  for  poor  Dan  Adam's  use  were  made  free, 
Till  a  man  with  more  power,  than  old  Moses  would  wish, 
Said,  "  Ye  wretches,  ye  shan't  touch  a  fowl  or  a  fish !  " 

Three  Generals  ^  these  mandates  have  borne  'cross  the  sea, 
To  deprive  'em  of  fish  and  to  make  'em  drink  tea ; 
In  turn,  sure,  these  freemen  will  boldly  agree. 
To  give  'em  a  dance  upon  Liberty  Tree. 


108        A  NEW  SONG  TO  AN  OLD  TfNE. 

Then  freedoTU^s  the  word,  both  at  home  and  abroad, 

And every  scabbard  that  hides  a  good  sword ! 

Our  forefathers  gave  us  this  freedom  in  hand, 
And  we'll  die  in  defence  of  the  rights  of  the  land. 
^  Derry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 

^  Three  Generals.  The  subjoined  impromptu  was  published  at 
London,  by  some  friend  of  the  colonies,  on  the  departiore  of  the 
British  Generals  for  America : 

"  Behold !  tbe  Cerberns  the  Atlantic  plough,    ^ 
Her  precious  cargo,  Burgoyne,  Clinton,  Howe- 
Bow!  wow!  wow!" 


1776. 

Very  many  songs,  bearing  this  title,  were  produced  during  the 
revolution.  This  spirited  one  was  originally  published  as  a  broad- 
side, early  in  1776.  At  a  later  period,  it  appeared  in  a  music- 
sheet,  adapted  to  the  "  Tune  of  the  sweeper :  —  Though  I  sweep  to 
and  fro." 

THE  TIIVIES.^ 

My  muse  now  thy  aid  and  assistance  we  claim, 
Whilst  freedom,  dear  freedom,  affords  us  a  theme, 
Invok'd,  be  propitious,  nor  madly  forbear, 
When  a  theme  that's  so  sacred  should  ring  far  and  near. 
Oh !  let  freedom,  and  friendship,  for  ever  remain, 
Nor  that  rascal  draw  breath,  who  would  forge  us  a 
chain. 


110  THE    TIMES. 

As  our  fathers  have  fought,  and  our  grandfathers  bled, 
And  many  a  hero  now  sleeps  with  the  dead  ; 
Let  us  nobly  defend,  what  they  bravely  maintam'd, 
Nor  suffer  our  sons  to  be  fetter 'd  and  chain'd. 

The  lion,  the  wolf,  and  the  tiger  may  prey, 
Each  beast  of  the  forest,  though  worse  still  than  they, 
May  be  brought  as  examples,  yet  where  can  we  find 
One  so  cruel,  as  sporting  to  kill  their  own  kind. 

Yet  Briton's  beware  of  the  curse  you  maintain, 
Your  sons  and  your  offspring  we  all  still  remain ; 
Behold  the  most  savage,  and  there  you  may  see. 
Their  offspring  more  tenderly  treated  than  we. 

Though  our  foes  may  look  on,  and    our    friends    may 

admire, 
How  a  Bute  or  a  North,  should  set  nations  on  fire, 
Yet  Satan,  when  suffer'd  his  madness  to  vent, 
In  meanest  of  mansions  sure  pitches  his  tent. 

Shall  freedom,  that  blessing  sent  down  from  above, 
A  manifest  mark  of  Grod's  wonderful  love, 
Be  left  at  his  will,  who  delights  to  annoy. 
Whose  pleasure  is  nought  but  to  kill  and  destroy  ? 


THE    TIMEM.  Ill 

Forbid  it,  ye  gods,  who  preside  o'er  the  land  ! 
Forbid  it,  ye  genii,  who  rule  with  the  wand ! 
Forbid  it,  ye  heroes,  whoever  draws  breath  ! 
Nor  dread,  in  the  combat,  to  rush  upon  death. 

May  our  King  be  as  wise  as  we  mortals  expect ; 
Each  rascal  from  council  then  boldly  eject; 
May  his  life  be  as  good,  and  his  reign  be  as  great, 
As  ever  was  Solomon's  wonderful  state. 

Then  curs'd  be  the  foes  of  our  birthright  so  dear, 
May  they  never  find  comfort  or  happiness  here  ! 
But  vagabond-like,  o'er  the  earth  may  they  stray, 
Unshelter'd  by  night,  and  unfed  through  the  day. 

Let  singular  blessings  America  crown ; 

May  the  Congress  be  blest  with  immortal  renown ; 

Each  colony  live  in  true  sisterly  peace. 

Whilst  harmony,  honor,  and  riches  increase. 

Oh  !  let  freedom  and  friendship  for  ever  remain. 
Nor  that  rascal  draw  breath,  who  would  forge  us  a  chain. 

^  The  Times.     In  a  version  of  this  soug,  published  in  1 777,  the 
following  couplet  is  added  : 

"The  time?,  it  seems,  are  altered  quite, 
The  scales  are  cracked,  the  sword  is  broke, 
Right  is  jio-\v  wrong,  and  wrong  is  right. 
And  justice  is  a  standing  joke."' 


g  ftto  S«ng. 

1776. 

Thongh  this  song  has  but  slight  pretensions  to  literary  merit,  its 
subject  long  made  it  popular  among  the  colonists.  It  was  first  print- 
ed in  the  Pennsylvania  Magazine,  and  occasionally  reprinted  in  the 
newspapers,  as  the  war  progressed.  The  melody  to  which  it  was 
adapted,  "  As  Jamie  gay  blithe  gang'd  his  way,"  probably  increased 
its  popularity. 

COLLINET  AND  PHEBE. 

As  Collinet  and  Phebe  sat, 

Beneath  a  poplar  grove, 
The  gentle  youth,  with  fondest  truth, 

Was  telling  tales  of  love. 


COLLINET    AND    PHEBE.  113 

Dear  blooming  maid,  the  shepherd  said, 

My  tender  vows  believe, 
These  downcast  eyes,  and  artless  sighs. 

Can  ne'er  thy  faith  deceive. 

Though  some  there  are,  from  fair  to  fair, 

Delighting  wild  to  rove, 
Such  change,  thou  ne'er,  from  me  canst  fear, 

Thy  charms  secure  my  love. 

Then  Phebe  now,  approve  my  vow, 

By  truth,  by  fondness  press'd ; 
A  smile  assume  to  grace  thy  bloom. 

And  make  thy  shepherd  bless'd. 

A  blush  o'erspread  her  cheek  with  red, 

Which  half  she  turn'd  aside  ; 
With  pleasing  woes,  her  bosom  rose, 

And  thus  the  maid  replied  — 

Dear  gentle  youth,  I  know  thy  truth, 

And  all  thy  arts  to  please ; 
But  ah  !  is  this  a  time  for  bliss, 

Or  themes  as  soft  as  these  ? 


114  COLLINET    AND    PHEBE. 

While  all  arouDd,  we  hear  no  sound, 

But  war's  terrific  strains  ! 
The  drum  commands  our  arming  bands, 

And  chides  each  tardy  swain. 

Our  country's  call,  arouses  all, 

Who  dare  be  brave  and  free ! 
My  love  shall  crown  the  youth  alone. 

Who  saves  himself  and  me. 

'Tis  done !  he  cried,  from  thy  dear  side, 

Now  quickly  I'll  be  gone ; 
From  love  will  I,  to  freedom  fly, 

A  slave  to  thee  alone. 

And  when  I  come  with  laurels  home, 

And  all  that  freemen  crave, 
To  crown  my  love,  your  smiles  shall  prove, 

The  fair  reward  the  brave. 

^  The  fair  reward  the  brave.  On  the  departure  of  the  able-bodied 
men  "  in  the  serdce  of  their  country,  the  patriotic  young  women,  to 
prevent  the  evil  that  would  follow  the  neglect  of  putting  in  the  crop, 
joined  the  ploughs  and  prepared  the  fallows  for  the  seed ;  and  now, 
their  fathers,  brothers,  and  lovers,  being  detained,  in  the  support  of 
the  liberties  of  these  States,  have  determined  to  plant  the  seed  them- 
selves."— FreemarCs  Journal,  1776. 


»r  Sjattg, 


1776. 

It  is  supposed  this  song  was  first  published  in  1776.  We  have  a 
music  sheet  containing  it,  and  the  "  Liberty  Song,"  bearing  the  fol- 
lowing impress:  "Portsmouth;  printed  by  Benjamin  Dearborn,' 
near  the  parade,  1776." 

WAR  SONG. 

Hark,  hark,  the  sound  of  war  is  heard, 

And  we  must  all  attend ; 
Take  up  our  arms  and  go  with  speed, 

Our  country  to  defend. 

•■ 

Our  parent  state  has  turned  our  foe, 
Which  fills  our  land  with  pain ; 

Her  gallant  ships,  manned  out  for  war, 
Come  thundering  o'er  the  main. 


116  WAR    SONG. 

There's  Carleton,  Howe,  and  Clinton  too. 

And  many  thousands  more, . 
May  cross  the  sea,  but  all  in  vain, 

Our  rights  we'll  ne'er  give  o'er. 

Our  pleasant  homes  they  do  invade, 

Our  property  devour ; 
And  all  because  we  won't  submit 

To  their  despotic  power. 

Then  let  us  go  against  our  foe. 
We'd  better  die  than  yield ; 

We  and  our  sons  are  all  undone, 
If  Britain  wins  the  field. 

Tories  may  dream  of  future  joys, 

But  I  am  bold  to  say, 
They'll  find  themselves  bound  fast  in  chains, 

If  Britain  wins  the  day. 

Husbands  must  leave  their  loving  wives, 
And  sprightly  youths  attend, 

Leave  their  sweethearts  and  risk  their  lives, 
Their  country  to  defend. 


WAR    SONG.  117 

May  they  be  heroes  in  the  field, 

Have  heroes'  fame  in  store ; 
We  pray  the  Lord  to  be  their  shield, 

Where  thundering  cannons  roar. 

'  Benjamin  Dearborn  was  the  printer  of  the  "  Freeman's  Journal, 
or  New  Hampshire  Gazette,"  in  which  many  fine  songs  were  pub- 
hshed.  This  one  has  been  attributed  to  Dearborn,  but  we  have  no 
authority  for  saying  that  he  ever  "wrote  any  other  verse  than  the 
following,  "  which  was  posted  on  the  front  of  his  printing  house." 

The  Printer  has  for  sale  within, 

Kettles  and  cups,  all  formed  of  tin : 
To  such  as  want  a  service-cup, 

Just  open  the  door  and  hasten  up !  . 

Pennsylvania  Packet. 


1776. 

Tliis  song  appeared  in  the  Connecticut  Gazette,  -wliile  the  British 
troops  held  possession  of  Boston.  It  was  afterwards  published  in  a 
ballad-sheet,  and  recently  reproduced  in  Buckingham's  Memoirs ,  its 
sentiment  being  a  sufficient  apology  for  the  defects  of  the  poetry. 

A  SONG. 

Smile,  Massachusetts,  smile, 

Thy  virtue  still  outbraves 

The  frowns  of  Britain's  isle. 

And  rage  of  home-born  slaves. 
Thy  free-born  sons  disdain  their  ease, 
When  purchased  by  their  liberties. 

Thy  genius,  once  the  pride 
Of  Britain's  ancient  isle, 


A    SONG.  119 


Brought  o'er  the  raging  tide 
By  our  forefather's  toil ; 
In  spite  of  North's  despotic  power, 
Shines  glorious  on  this  western  shore. 

In  Hancock's  generous  mind 
Awakes  the  noble  strife, 
Which  so  conspicuous  shined, 
In  gallant  Sydney's  life  ; 
While  in  its  cause  the  hero  bled, 
Immortal  honors  crown'd  his  head. 

Let  zeal  your  breasts  inspire ; 

Let  wisdom  guide  your  plans ; 

'Tis  not  your  cause  entire. 

On  doubtfal  conflict  hangs ; 
The  fate  of  this  vast  continent, 
And  unborn  millions  share  th'  event. 

To  close  the  gloomy  scenes 
Of  this  alarming  day, 
A  happy  union  reigns 
Through  wide  America. 


120  A    SONG. 

While  awful  wisdom  hourly  waits, 
To  adorn  the  councils  of  her  states. 

Brave  Washington  arrives, 
Arrayed  in  warlike  fame, 
While  in  his  soul  revives 
Great  Marlboro's  martial  flame , 

To  lead  your  conquering  armies  on 

To  lasting  glory  and  renown. 

To  aid  the  glorious  cause, 
Experienc'd  Lee  has  come, 
Renown'd  in  foreign  wars, 
A  patriot  at  home. 
■  While  valiant  Putnam's  warlike  deeds. 
Apaongst  the  foe  a  terror  spreads. 

Let  Britons  proudly  boast, 
"  That  their  two  thousand  braves, 
Can  drive  our  numerous  host. 
And  make  us  all  their  slaves ;  " 
While  twice  six  thousand  quake  with  fear, 
Nor  dare  without  their  lines  appear. 


A    SONG.  121 


Kind  Heaven  has  deign'd  to  own 
Our  bold  resistance  just, 
Since  murderous  Gage  began 
The  bloody  carnage  first. 
Near  ten  to  one  has  been  their  cost, 
For  each  American  we've  lost. 

Stand  firm  in  your  defence. 
Like  Sons  of  Freedom  fight, 
Your  haughty  foes  convince. 
That  you'll  maintain  your  right. 
Defiance  bid  to  tyrants'  frown, 
And  glory  will  your  valor  crown. 


©ff  fr0m  §0St0n. 


1776. 

These  congratulatory  verses  were  sung  by  the  soldiers  of  the 
Continental  army,  after  the  evacuation  of  Boston.  It  appeared  under 
various  names,  but  was  generally  known  by  its  present  title,  or  as 
the 


MILITARY  SONG. 

Sons  of  valor,  taste  the  glories 

Of  celestial  liberty, 
Sing  a  triumph  ^  o'er  the  tories, 

Let  the  pulse  of  joy  beat  high. 


MILITARY    SONG.  123 

Heaven  hath  this  day  foil'd  the  many 

Fallacies  of  George  the  King ; 
Let  the  echo  reach  Britan'y, 

Bid  her  mountain  summits  ring. 

See  yon  navy  swell  the  bosom, 

Of  the  late  enraged  sea ; 
Where'er  they  go,  we  shall  oppose  them. 

Sons  of  valor  must  be  free. 

Should  they  touch  at  fair  Rhode  Island, 

There  to  combat  with  the  brave, 
Driven  from  each  dale  and  highland, 

They  shall  plough  the  purple  wave. 

Should  they  thence  to  fair  Virginia, 

Bend  a  squadron  to  Dunmore, 
Still  with  fear  and  ignominy. 

They  shall  quit  the  hostile  shore. 

To  Carolina  or  to  Georg'y, 

Should  they  next  advance  their  fame, 
This  land  of  heroes  shall  disgorge  the 

Sons  of  tyranny  and  shame. 


124  MILITARY    SONG. 

Let  them  rove  to  climes  far  distant, 
Situate  under  Arctic  skies, 

Call  on  Hessian  troops  ^  assistant, 
And  the  savages  to  rise. 

Boast  of  wild  brigades  from  Eussia, 
To  fix  down  the  galling  chain, 

Canada  and  Nova  Scotia, 
Shall  disgorge  these  hordes  again. 

In  New  York  state  rejoin' d  by  Clinton, 
Should  their  standards  mock  the  air, 

Many  a  surgeon  shall  put  lint  on 
Wounds  of  death  received  there. 

War,  fierce  war,  shall  break  their  forces, 
Nerves  of  tory  men  shall  fail, 

Seeing  Howe  with  alter'd  courses, 
Bending  to  the  western  gale. 

Thus  from  every  bay  of  ocean. 
Flying  back  with  sails  unfurl'd. 

Tossed  with  ever-troubled  motion. 
They  shall  quit  this  smiling  world. 


MILITARY    80NG.  125 

Like  Satan  banished  from  heaven, 

Never  see  the  smiling  shore ; 

From  this  laud,  so  happy,  driven, 

Never  stain  its  bosom  more. 


^  Sing  a  triumph.  In  February,  1776,  Washington,  who  was  at 
that  time  with  the  main  army  at  Cambridge,  proposed  to  a  council 
of  his  officers,  to  cross  upon  the  ice  and  attack  the  enemy,  who  held 
possession  of  Boston,  but  they  unanimously  disapproved  of  that 
daring  scheme.  It  Avas,  however,  soon  resolved  to  take  possession 
of  the  heights  of  Dorchester ;  and  on  the  morning  of  the  fifth  of 
March,  the  Americans  had  so  far  completed  their  works  at  that  place, 
as  to  excite  the  astonishment  of  the  ministerial  troops,  who  evacua- 
ted Boston  on  the  seventeenth  of  the  same  month.  As  the  rear  of 
the  British  army  embai-ked,  General  Washington  marched  into  the 
city,  where  he  Avas  joyfully  received,  as  the  "  deliverer  of  his  coun- 
try." 

^  Call  on  Hessian  troops.  The  British  government  "  has  sent  over 
to  Germany  to  engage  troops  for  American  service,  and  succeeded  in 
raising  a  legion  of  Jagers,  people  brought  up  to  the  use  of  the  rifle- 
barrel  guns,  in  boar  hunting.  They  are  amazingly  expert,  and  the 
ministry  plume  themselves  much  in  the  thought  of  their  being  a 
complete  match  for  the  American  riflemen.  We  think  they'll  find 
boars  in  this  country  that  will  teach  them  how  to  grunt  and  wallow." 

FreemarCs  Journal,  1776. 


$  IragCT. 


1776. 

The  origm  of  this  specimen  of  the  "  Yankee  Psalms  and 
Prayers  "  is  nnkno'WT}.  There  are  numerous  versions  of  it,  hut  this 
is  the  only  one  that  is  above  mediocrity,  and  suitable  for  this  collec- 
tion. 

COMMON  PRAYER  FOR  THE  TIMES. 

Since  we  are  taught  in  Scripture  word 

To  pray  for  friends  and  foes  ; 
Then  let  us  pray  for  G-eorge  the  Third, 
.  Who  must  be  one  of  those. 

Heaven  bless  America,  and  Britain, 

May  folly  past  suffice, 
Wherein  they  have  each  other  smitten, 

Who  ought  to  harmonize. 


COMMON    PRAYER    FOR    THE    TIMES.  127 

Allied  by  blood,  and  interest  too, 

Soon  let  them  re-unite, 
May  Heaven  tyrannic  minds  subdue, 

Haste,  haste  the  pleasing  sight. 

May  ev'ry  morn  and  ev'ning  prayer 

Repeat  this  just  petition. 
What  thinking  Christian  can  forbear, 

Appris'd  of  our  condition. 

Britannia's  sins  are  our  woVst  foes, 

Let  this  be  Britain's  creed, 
For  those  who  God  and  man  oppose, 

Must  rebels  be  indeed. 

This  rebel-host  how  num'rous  grown  ! 

This  growth  kind  Heaven  forbid  ! 
'Tis  fear'd  some  are  too  near  the  throne, 

And  seem  securely  hid. 

Just  Heaven,  to  light  all  rebels  bring, 

Who  hate  or  love  the  steeple. 
Rebels  to  God,  and  to  the  king, 

And  rebels  to  the  people. 


lurratoittg  ^mlm. 


1776. 

This  song  must  have  been  very  popular  with  the  loyalists,  as 
four  different  editions  were  published  in  broadsides,  during  the  two 
years  following  its  first  appearance,  in  the  "  Halifax  Joiirnal,"  a 
short  time  subsequent  to  the  evacuation  of  Boston. 

BURROWING  YANKEES.^ 

Ye  Yankees  who,  mole-like,  still  throw  up  the  earth. 
And  like  them,  to  your  follies  are  blind  from  your  birth ; 
Attempt  not  to  hold  British  troops  at  defiance. 
True  Britons,  with  whom  you  pretend  an  alliance. 

Mistake  not ;  such  blood  ne'er  run  in  your  veins, 
'Tis  no  more  than  the  dregs,  the  lees,  or  the  drains : 
Ye  affect  to  talk  big  of  your  hourly  attacks  ; 
Come  on  I  and  I'll  warrant,  we'll  soon  see  your  backs. 


ft 


BURROWING    YANKEES.  129 

Such  threats  of  bravadoes  serve  only  to  warm 

The  true  British  hearts,  you  ne'er  can  alarm  ; 

The  Lion  once  rous'd,  will  strike  such  a  terror, 

Shall  show  you,  poor  fools,  your  presumption  and  error. 

And  the  time  will  soon  come  when  your  whole  rebel  race 
Will  be  drove  from  the  lands,  nor  dare  show  your  face  : 
Here's  a  health  to  great  George^  may  he  fully  determine, 
To  root  from  the  earth  all  such  insolent  vermin. 


^  Burrowing  Yankees.  The  newspapers,  attached  to  the  cause  of 
the  patriots,  very  generally  republished  this  song  as  "  a  piece  of 
tory  gasconading."  Among  those,  the  editor  of  the  "Freeman's 
Journal"  reproduced  it,  congratulating  his  readers  on  having  an 
opportunity  to  grace  "Poet's  corner,  with  an  incomparable  produc- 
tion" from  a  tory  paper,  at  the  same  time  observing,  that  the  genius 
who  -wi-ote  it,  "must  have  forgotten  the  battles  of  Lexington  and 
Bunker  Hill." 


1776. 

The  pai-ticulars  known,  concerning  the  capture,  trial,  and  execu- 
tion of  this  gallant,  and  much  lamented  young  officer,  are  few, 
Washington,  after  the  retreat  of  his  army  from  Loifg  Island,  in  1776, 
^vishing  to  obtain  information  relative  to  the  true  situation,  and  in- 
tended operations,  of  the  royal  ti'oops,  applied  to  one  of  his  officers, 
for  a  "  discreet  and  enterprising  person  to  penetrate  the  enemy's 
camp."  This  request  was  communicated  to  Nathan  Hale,^  a  cap- 
tain in  Colonel  Knowlton's  regiment.  "  Animated  by  a  sense  of  his 
duty,"  Hale  undertook  the  dangerous  service,  and  passed  into  the 
British  lines  in  disguise.  He  obtained  the  desired  information ;  but 
on  his  return,  was  apprehended  and  carried  before  Sir  William  Howe, 
to  whom  he  frankly  acknowledged  the  object  of  his  visit.  Howe 
immediately  gave  an  order  to  the  provost  marshal,  and  Hale  was 
executed  in  the  early  part  of  the  next  day.  "  The  execution  was 
carried  on  in  a  most  unfeeling  manner,  and  by  as  great  a  savage 
as  ever  disgraced  humanity.  A  clergyman,  whose  attendance  he 
desired,  was  refused  him  ;  a  bible  for  a  moment's  devotion  was  not 
procured,  though  he  requested  it.  Letters,  which  on  the  morning 
of  his  execution,  he  ^^'Tote  to  his  mother,  and  other  friends,  were 


NATHAN    HALE.  131 

destroyed  ;  and  this  very  extraordinary  reason  given  by  the  provost 
marshal,  '  that  the  rebels  should  not  know  that  they  had  a  man  in 
their  army  who  could  die  with  so  much  firmness.'  "  - 

A  BALLAD. 

The  breezes  went  steadily  thro'  the  tall  pines, 
A  saying  "  oh  !  hu-ush  !"  a  saying  "  oh  !  hu-ush  !" 

As  stilly  stole  by  a  bold  legion  of  horse, 
For  Hale  in  the  bnsb,  for  Hale  in  the  bush. 

"  Keep  still ! "  said  the  thrush  as  she  nestled  her  young, 
In  a  nest  by  the  road  ;  in  a  nest  by  the  road. 

*'  For  the  tyrants  are.  near,  and  with  them  appear, 
What  bodes  us  no  good,  what  bodes  us  no  good." 

The  brave  captain  heard  it,  and  thought  of  his  home, 
In  a  cot  by  the  brook  ;  in  a  cot  by  the  brook. 

With  mother  and  sister  and  memories  dear, 
He  so  gaily  forsook ;  he  so  gaily  forsook. 

Cooling  shades  of  the  night  were  coming  apace, 
The  tattoo  had  beat ;  the  tattoo  had  beat. 

The  noble  one  sprang  from  his  dark  lurking  place, 
To  make  his  retreat ;  to  make  his  retreat. 


132  NATHAN    HALE. 

He  warily  trod  on  the  dry  rustling  leaves, 

As  he  pass'd  thro'  the  wood;   as  he  pass'd  thro'  the 
wood ; 
And  silently  gain'd  his  rude  launch  on  the  shore, 
As  she  play'd  with  the  flood ;  as  she  play'd  with  the 
flood. 

The  guards  of  the  camp,  on  that  dark,  dreary  night, 
Had  a  murderous  will ;  had  a  murderous  will. 

They  took  him  and  bore  him  afar  from  the  shore, 
To  a  hut  on  the  hill ;  to  a  hut  on  the  hill. 

No  mother  was  there,  nor  a  friend  who  could  cheer, 
In  that  little  stone  cell ;  in  that  little  stone  cell. 

But  he  trusted  in  love,  from  his  father  above. 

In  his  heart,  all  was  well ;  in  his  heart,  all  was.  well 

An  ominous  owl  with  his  solemn  base  voice. 

Sat  moaning  hard  by ;  sat  moaning  hard  by. 
'  The  tyrant's  proud  minions  most  gladly  rejoice, 
"  For  he  must  soon  die  ;  for  he  must  soon  die." 

The  brave  fellow  told  them,  no  thing  he  restrain'd, 

The  cruel  gen'ral ;  the  cruel  gen'ral. 
His  errand  from  camp,  of  the  ends  to  be  gain'd, 

And  said  that  was  all ;  and  said  that  wns  all. 


NATHAN    HALE.  133 

They  took  him  and  bound  him  and  bore  him  awaj', 
Down  the  hill's  grassy  side  ;  down  the  hill's  grassy 
side. 

'Twas  there  the  base  hirelings,  in  royal  array, 
His  cause  did  deride ;  his  cause  did  deride. 

0 

/     Five  minutes  were  given,  short  moments,  no  more, 
For  him  to  repent ;  for  him  to  repent ; 
He  pray'd  for  his  mother,  he  ask'd  not  another, 
)/i   I  To  Heaven  he  went ;  to  Heaven  he  went. 


"^  1       The  faith  of  a  martyr,  the  tragedy  shew'd, 
^\  As  he  trod  the  last  stage ;  as  he  trod  the  last  stage. 

And  Britons  will  shudder  at  gallant  Hale's  blood, 
,  As  his  words  do  presage,  as  his  words  do  presage. 


"  Thou  pale  king  of  terrors,  thou  life's  gloomy  foe. 
Go  frighten  the  slave,  go  frighten  the  slave  ; 
Tell  tyrants,  to  you,  their  allegiance  they  owe. 
No  fears  for  the  brave;  no  fears  for  the  brave.' 


^  Nathan  Hale  was  a  descendant  of  John  Hale,  first  minister  of 
Reverly,  Massachusetts.  He  was  the  son  of  Richard  H.  Hale,  of 
Coventry,  Connecticut,  and  graduated  at  Yale  College  in  1773,  with 
lii;j;li  honors.     Little  is  known  of  his  private  history.     The  subjoined 


134 


NATHAN    HALE. 


account  of  hira  is  copied  from  the  "  Freeman's  Journal,"  of  Febniary 
18,  1777.  "  The  follouing  is  a  genuine  specimen  of  tory  benevolence,  and 
may  be  depended  upon  as  real  master  of  fact.  Samuel  Hale,  late  of 
Portsmouth,  New  Hampshii-e,  after  his  elopement  from  thence,  a  isit- 
ed  an  uncle  in  Connecticut,  where  he  was  hospitably  entertained ; 
but  as  his  uncle  was  a  whig,  and  had  a  son,  a  young  gentleman  of 
liberal  education,  and  most  amiable  disposition,  who  strongly  felt  for 
his  bleeding  country,  and  being  very  active  in  the  military  way,  was 
urged  and  prevailed  on  to  take  a  commission  in  the  Continental 
army;  consequently  Samuel  was  obliged  to  conduct  with  caution, 
and  counterfeit,  as  well  as  he  could,  a  whiggish  phiz,  while  he  tar- 
ried, which  Avas,  however,  but  a  short  time",  before  he  made  his 
escape  to  General  Howe  in  New  York.  Some  time  after  this.  Cap- 
tain Hale,  at  the  request  of  the  General,  went  into  New  York  in 
disguise,  and  having  nearly  accomplished  his  designs,  who  should  he 
meet  but  his  aforesaid  cousin  Samuel,  whom  he  attempted  to  shun  ; 
but  Sam  knew  him  too  well.  Captain  Hale  soon  found  he  was 
advertised,  and  so  particularly  described,  that  he  could  not  get 
through  Long  Island.  He  therefore  attempted  to  escape  by  King's- 
bridge,  and  so  far  succeeded  as  to  get  to  the  outer  guard,  where  he 
was  suspected,  apprehended,  carried  back  and  tried,  and  yet  would 
have  been  acquitted,  had  not  his  affectionate  and  grateful  cousin 
Samuel  appeared  and  made  oath,  that  he  was  a  captain  in  the  Con- 
tinental army,  and  that  he  was  in  there  as  a  spy,  in  consequence  of 
which  he  was  immediately  hung  up.  However,  at  the  gallows  he 
made  a  sensible  and  spirited  speech ;  among  other  things  told  them 
they  were  shedding  the  blood  of  the  innocent,  and  that  if  he  had 
ten  thousand  lives,  he  would  lay  them  all  down,  if  called  to  it,  in 
defence  of  this  injured  bleeding  country. 

"  The  printers  throughout  the  continent  are  desired  to  exhibit 
this  tragical  scene  to  the  public ;  that  they  may  see  what  they  may 
expect  if  they  fall  into  the  hands  of  the  tories." 

-  Hannah  Adams'  History  of  New  England. 


<ittllil}an's  Islani, 


1776. 

This  ironical,  and  burlesque  old  song,  was  composed  in  the  early 
part  of  1777.  The  author  treats  of  the  unsuccessful  attack  on  Sul- 
livan's Island,  by  the  British,  in  the  summer  of  the  previous  year, 
and  closes  his  epic  with  promises  to  gain  lasting  fame  for  the  royal 
arms,  in  all  future  actions.  In  the  papers  of  the  time,  it  appears  as 
a  "  New  War  Song,  by  Sir  Peter  Parker,"  written  and  printed  in  Lon- 
don, and  adapted  to  the  tune,  "  Well  met,  brother  Tar  !" 

A  NEW  WAR  SONG. 

My  Lords,  with  your  leave, 

An  account  I  will  give,^ 
That  deserves  to  be  written  in  metre : 

For  the  rebels  and  I,  tr 

Have  been  pretty  nigh. 
Faith  almost  too  nigh  for  Sir  Peter. 


136  A    NEW    WAR    SONG. 

With  much  labor  and  toil, 

Uuto  Sullivan's  Isle," 
I  came  firm  as  Falstaff  or  Pistol, 

But  the  Yankees,  'od  rot  'em, 

I  could  not  get  at  'em  : 
Most  terribly  maul'd  my  poor  Bristol.^ 

Bold  Clinton  by  land,* 

Did  quietly  stand, 
While  I  made  a  thundering  clatter ; 

But  the  channel  was  deep. 

So  he  only  could  peep. 
And  not  venture  over  the  water. 

De'el  take  'em,  their  shot 

Came  so  swift  and  so  hot, 
And  the  cowardly  dogs  '  stood  so  stift",  sirs  ! 

That  I  put  ship  about. 

And  was  glad  to  get  out, 
Or  they  would  not  have  left  me  a  skiff,  sirs ! 

•  Now  bold  as  a  Turk, 

I  proceed  to  New  York,^ 
Where  with  Clinton  and  Howe  you  may  find  me. 


A    NEW    WAR    SONG.  137 

I've  the  wind  in  my  tail, 
And  am  hoisting  my  sail, 
To  leave  Sullivan's  island  behind  me. 

But  my  Lords,  do  not  fear. 

For  before  the  next  year. 
Although  a  small  island  could  fret  us, 

The  Continent  whole, 

We  shall  take,  by  my  soul. 
If  the  cowardly  Yankees  ^  will  let  us. 

'  An  account  I  will  give.  Late  iu  the  month  of  June,  1776,  Gene- 
ral Sir  Henry  Clinton,  and  Sir  Peter  Parker,  with  a  powerful  fleet 
and  army,  attempted  the  reduction  of  Charleston,  South  Carolina. 
The  fleet  came  to  anchor,  at  less  than  half  musket  shot  from  the 
fort  on  Sullivan's  Island,  and  commenced  the  engagement.  It  lasted 
over  ten  hours,  when  the  British  were  repulsed,  after  suffering  great 
loss.  After  the  firing  ceased,  the  fleet  slipped  their  cables,  and  be- 
fore the  next  morning  had  retired  two  miles  from  the  fort. 

^  Sullivan's  Isle  is  situated  on  the  northern  side  of  Charleston 
hai'bor,  about  four  miles  from  the  town. 

^  Most  terribly  maiiVd  mypoar  Bristol.  The  Bristol  flag-ship,  un- 
der the  command  of  Sir  Peter  Parker,  was  greatly  damaged  in  the 
huU.  Commodore  Parker's  breeches  were  torn  off,  his  thigh  and 
knee  wounded,  so  that  he  walked  only  when  supported  on  each  side. 
The  following  extempore  appeared  in  the  Constitutional  Gazette,  at 
New  YnrV   a  short  time  after  this  action. 

If  "honor  in  the  breech  is  lodged," 

As  Hndibras  has  shown, 
It  may  from  thence  be  fairly  judged, 

Sir  Peter's  honor  gone. 


138  A    NEW    WAR    SONG. 


*  Bold  Clinton  by  land.  General  Clinton,  some  time  before  the 
engagement,  landed  with  a  number  of  troops  on  Long  Island,  and  it 
was  expected  he  would  have  co-operated  with  Sir  Peter  Parker,  by 
crossing  the  narrow  passage  which  di\-ides  the  two  islands ;  but 
Colonel  Thompson  with  eight  hundred  men,  stationed  to  oppose  him, 
induced  him  to  decline  the  perilous  attempt. 

^  And  the  cowardly  dogs.  The  garrison  under  the  command  of 
Colonel  Moultrie,  although  composed  entirely  of  raw  troops,  showed 
determination  and  coolness  that  would  have  done  honor  to  the  old- 
est men  in  the  service.  They  fired  dehberately,  for  the  most  part 
took  aim,  and  seldom  missed  their  object.  On  the  day  after  this 
gallant  action,  Moultrie  cheered  his  officers  and  men  in  the  follow- 
ing spirited  and  singular  language :  "  My  brave  companions,  you 
see  the  advantage  of  courage  and  fortitude.  You  have  fought  and 
have  conquered,  and  the  gallant  fellows  who  fell  in  the  cannonade  of 
yesterday,  are  now  in  Heaven,  riding  in  their  chariots  like  the  devil." 

New  Jei'sey  Journal,  1779. 

®  I  proceed  to  New  York.  A  few  days  after  the  engagement,  the 
troops  re-embarked  and  the  whole  sailed  for  New  York. 

"^  If  the  cowardly  Yankees.  During  the  hottest  fire  of  Sir  Peter 
Parker's  squadron,  the  flag  of  the  fort  was  shot  down.  Sergeant 
WUliam  Jasper  immediately  stood  upon  the  ramparts,  with  the  flag 
in  his  hand,  until  another  staff  was  handed  to  him,  when  he  planted 
it  and  retired. 


^uh^mMtt 


1776. 

This  bold  song  appeared  in  the  "  Freeman's  Journal,"  about  one 
month  previous  to  the  declaration  of  independence,  as  a  "  Parody- 
on  an  ode  published  in  the  Town  and  Country  Magazine,"  in  1774. 
The  loyal  papers  of  the  time  speak  of  it  as  a  specimen  of  "  high- 
bom  rebel  melody."  There  is  a  low  and  vulgar  parody  on  this 
song,  in  a  collection  of  "  Fugitive  Pieces,"  published  at  London  in 
1777. 

INDEPENDENCE. 

Freemen  I  if  you  pant  for  glory, 
If  you  sigh  to  live  in  story, 

If  you  burn  with  patriot  zeal ; 
Seize  this  bright  auspicious  hour. 
Chase  those  venal  tools  of  power, 

Who  subvert  the  public  weal. 


140  INDEPENDENCE. 

Huzza  !  Huzza !  Huzza  ! 

See  Freedom  her  banner  display, 

Whilst  glory  and  virtue  your  bosoms  inspire, 

Corruption's  proud  slaves  shall  with  anguish  retire. 

Would  traitors  base  with  bribes  beguile  you,  • 
Or  with  idiot  scoffs  revile  you. 

Ne'er  your  sacred  trusts  betray ; 
Hancock,  Adams,  nobly  pleading. 
Never  from  the  truth  receding. 

Them,  North's  vengeance  can't  dismay. 

See,  their  glorious  path  pursuing, 
All  Britannia's  troops  subduing. 

Patriots  whom  no  threats  restrain. 
Lawless  tyrants  all  confounding, 
Future  times  their  praise  resounding. 

Shall  their  triumphs  long  maintain.* 

^  FreemarHs  Journal.  Among  the  newspapers  foremost  in  support 
of  the  cause  of  the  colonies,  the  "  Freeman's  Journal,  or  New 
Hampshire  Gazette,"  published  at  Portsmouth,  took  a  most  decided 
and  fearless  position.  No  number  of  that  paper  appeared  during 
that  "  well-tried  contest,"  without  some  urgent  appeal,  fiUed  with 
hope  and  encouragement  for  those  who  were  struggling  for  their 
"rights  and  religion;"  and  its  editors  were  ever  faithful  to  their 
trusts  and  principles ;  never  faltering  to  upbraid  and  oppose  all  who 
entertained  any  sympathy  or  affection  for  the  British  Government. 


®0  tk  €mmm$. 


1776. 

This  song  was  written  in  England,  and  first  published  in  the 
Middlesex  Jonmal,  over  the  signature  of  M.  On  a  broadside,  dated 
1777,  the  author  says :  "  My  efforts  were  so  well  received  last  year, 
I  have  the  temerity  to  republish,  in  a  more  portable  form,  and  try 
the  royal  brutes  again.  Heaven  help  us,  if  they  will  not  take 
good  advice,  or  stop  for  reflection,  for  they  are  speedily  leading  us 
to  the  ." 

TO  THE  COMMONS. 

OK   MEETING    AFTER   THE    RECESS. 

With  Christmas  mirth,  and  Christmas  cheer, 
My  friends  pray  look  not  glummer ; 

With  turkey,  chine,  and  beef  and  beer, 
You're  surely  in  good  humor. 


142  TO    THE    COMMONS 

The  folks  on  t'other  side  the  wave, 
Have  beef  as  well  as  you,  sirs ; 

Some  chines,  and  turkeys  too,  they  have, 
And  as  they  bake  they  brew,  sirs. 

What,  tho'  your  cannon  raze  their  towns, 
And  tumble  down  their  houses, 

They'll  fight  like  devils  '  —  blood  and  'oons, 
For  children  and  for  spouses. 

Another  truth  —  nay,  'tis  no  boast, 
Nor  yet  the  lie  o'  th'  day,  sirs ; 

The  saints  on  Massachusetts  coast, 
Grain  if  they  run  away,  sirs. 

For  further  than  your  bullets  fly, 
A  common  man  may  run,  sirs. 

And  wheat  will  grow  beneath  the  sky, 
Where  cannot  reach  a  gun,  sirs. 

Then  what  are  ships,  and  swords,  and  guns. 
And  men  of  bloody  mind,  sirs. 

While,  Parthian-like,  who  conquers  runs, 
Who  loses, — stays  behind,  sirs. 


TO    THE    COMMONS.  143 

Then  rise  my  men,  in  merry  mood, 

Vote  —  nem-con-tra-di-cente. 
That  five  and  five  for  ten  are  good. 

And  ten  and  ten  make  twenty. 

Recall  your  ships,  your  troops  recall, 

Let  friends  each  other  nourish, 
So  shall  old  England  rule  the  ball. 

And  George  and  freedom  flourish. 

^  They'U  fight  like  devils.  I  see  that  the  conduct  of  the  New  Eng- 
land peasantry  has  softened  the  hearts  of  some  of  our  wise  nohs,  and 
that  they  dare  to  allow  them  a  degree  of  "  wisdom,  courage,  and 
bravery,"  although  they  have  modified  their  praise  slightly  since 
the  "dastard  rebels"  have  gone  to  rhjining.  Here's  a  fine  speci- 
men of  "  cowardice,"  by  the  last  mail,  from  "  loyal  Virginia." 

'■  Let  Britons,  now  sunk  into  tyrants  and  slaves  ! 
Submit  to  be  governed  by  fools  and  by  knaves. 
Not  so  will  their  kindred  on  this  side  the  sea, 
American  Britons  will  ever  be  free." 

Note  hy  author  of  the  Song. 


©n  |i\Ji^pniMt 


1776. 

The  defiance  and  devotion  expressed  in  these  verses,  are  an  ex- 
cellent illustration  of  the  spirit  of  the  times,  in  which  they  were 
written.  The  author.  Dr.  Jonathan  IMitchell  Sewall,^  of  New 
Hampshire,  composed  many  poems  and  patriotic  songs.  His  ode  of 
War  and  Washington  is  familiar  to  every  one. 

ON  INDEPENDENCE. 

Come  all  you  brave  soldiers,  both  valiant  and  free, 
It's  for  Independence  we  all  now  agree ; 
Let  us  gird  on  our  swords,  and  prepare  to  defend, 
Our  liberty,  property,  ourselves  and  our  friends. 


ON    INDEPENDENCE.  145 

In  a  cause  that's  so  righteous,  come  let  us  agree, 
And  from  hostile  invaders  set  America  free, 
The  cause  is  so  glorious  we  need  not  to  fear. 
But  from  merciless  tyrants  we'll  set  ourselves  clear. 

Heaven's  blessing  attending  us,  no  tyrant  shall  say, 
That  Americans  e'er  to  such  monsters  gave  way, 
But  fighting  we'll  die  in  America's  cause. 
Before  we'll  submit  to  tyrannical  laws. 

George  the  Third,  of  Great  Britain,  no  more  shall  he 

reign, 
With  unlimited  sway  o'er  these  free  States  again, 
Lord  North,  nor  old  Bute,  nor  none  of  their  clan, 
Shall  ever  be  honor'd  by  an  American. 

May  Heaven's  blessings  descend  on  our  United  States, 
And  grant  that  the  union  may  never  abate ; 
May  love,  peace,  and  harmony,  ever  be  found, 
For  to  go  hand  in  hand  America  round. 

Upon  our  grand  Congress  may  Heaven  bestow, 
Both  wisdom  and  skill  our  good  to  pursue  ; 
On  Heaven  alone  dependent  we'll  be, 
But  from  all  earthly  tyrants  we  mean  to  be  free. 

7 


146  ON   INDEPENDENCE. 

Unto  our  brave  Generals  may  Heaven  give  skill, 
Our  armies  to  guide,  and  the  sword  for  to  wield, 
May  their  hands  taught  to  war,  and  their  fingers  to  fight, 
Be  able  to  put  British  armies  to  flight. 

And  now,  brave  Americans,  since  it  is  so. 

That  we  are  independent,  we'll  have  them  to  know, 

That  united  we  are,  and  united  we'll  be. 

And  from  all  British  tyrants  we'll  try  to  keep  free. 

May  Heaven  smile  on  us  in  all  our  endeavors, 
Safe  guard  our  seaports,  our  towns,  and  our  rivers. 
Keep  us  from  invaders  by  land  and  by  sea. 
And  from  all  who'd  deprive  us  of  our  liberty. 

^  Jonaihan  M.  SewaJl  was  born  in  17-1:9.  Being  adopted  by  his 
uncle,  Chief  Justice  Stephen  Sewall,  of  Massachusetts,  he  studied 
law,  and  in  1774  was  Register  of  Probate  for  Grafton  County,  N.  H. 
He  afterwards  removed  to  Portsmouth,  where  he  died  March  29, 
1808.  —  Allen's  Biographical  Dictionary. 


^  ialW. 


177  6. 

TO  THE  TUNE  OF  "  SMILE  BRITANNIA." 

Rise,  rise,  briglit  genius  rise, 

Conduct  thy  sons  to  war; 

Thy  spear  pois'd  to  the  skies, 

Whirl,  whirl,  thy  rapid  car ; 
Fire  each  firm  breast  with  noble  zeal, 
To  conquer  for  the  common  weal. 

For  years  the  iron  rod, 
Has  hover'd  o'er  our  heads, 
Submit  to  G-eorge's  nod, 
Whose  power  all  Europe  dreads; 
The  slavish  minion  trembling  cries, 
But  freedom's  sons  all  fears  despise. 


148  A    BALLAD. 

All  means  for  peace  we've  tried, 
But  found  those  measures  vain, 
North's  ministerial  pride, 
Thought  fear  made  us  complain  • 
But  in  the  end  convinc'd  he'll  see, 
We  dread  not  death,  but  slavery. 

Tho'  fatal  lust  of  power. 
Has  steel'd  the  tyrant's  soul, 
Tho'  in  an  ill-timed  hour, 
He  bid  his  thunders  roll, 
Great  Liberty,  inspir'd  by  thee, 
We  fly  to  death  or  victory ! 

Great  nature's  law  inspires, 
All  free-born  souls  unite. 
While  common  interest  fires 
Us  to  defend  our  rights, 
Against  corruption's  boundless  claim. 
And  firmly  fix  great  freedom's  reign. 

They  foreign  troops  employ, 
For  mercenary  hire ; 


A   BALLAD.  149 

Their  weakness  we  enjoy, 

Each  pulse  i:ew  ardors  fire  ; 
Convinc'd  the  wretch  who  fights  for  pay, 
Will  never  bear  the  palm  away. 

They  boast  their  power  by  sea, 

The  ruin  of  our  trade. 

Our  navy  soon  they'll  see. 

Wide  o'er  the  ocean  spread ; 
Britain  not  long  shall  boast  her  reign. 
O'er  the  wide  empire  of  the  main. 

Throughout  the  universe, 

Our  commerce  we'll  extend, 

Each  power  on  the  reverse, 

Shall  seek  to  be  our  friends, 
Whilst  our  sons,  crown'd  with  wealth  immense, 
Sing  Washington  and  Common  Sense. 


lattU  0f  %xmtm. 


1776. 

Numerous  songs,  odes,  epigrams  and  pasquinades,  commemora- 
ting this  battle,  appeared  during  the  war.  "We  have  several  loyal 
productions  upon  this  subject ;  but  they  are  too  profane  and  corrupt 
for  publication  at  the  present  time.  The  author  of  the  one  subjoined 
is  unknown.  The  Earl  Dorset's  lyric  "  Fire  of  Love,"  which  was 
very  popular  at  the  period  of  the  Revolution,  is,  probably,  the  song 
upon  which  this  was  modelled. 

BATTLE  OF  TRENTON.^ 

On  Christmas  day  in  seventy-six, 
Our  ragged  troops  with  bayonets  fix'd, 

For  Trenton  marched  away. 
The  Delaware  see  !  the  boats  below ! 
The  light  obscured  by  hail  and  snow  ! 

But  no  signs  of  dismay. 


BATTLE    OF    TRE^'TO^^  151 

Our  object  was  the  Hessian  band, 
That  dared  invade  fair  freedom's  land, 

And  quarter  in  that  place. 
Great  Washington  he  led  ns  on, 
Whose  streaming  flag,  in  storm  or  sun, 

Had  never  known  disgrace. 

In  silent  march  we  pass'd  the  night, 
Each  soldier  panting  for  the  fight, 

Though  quite  benumb'd  with  frost. 
Greene,  on  the  left,  at  six  began, 
The  right  was  led  bj  Sullivan, 

Who  ne'er  a  moment  lost. 

Their  pickets  storm'd,  the  alarm  was  spread. 
That  rebels  risen  from  the  dead 

Were  marching  into  town. 
Some  scamper'd  here,  some  scamper'd  there,'' 
And  some  for  action  did  prepare ; 

But  soon  their  arms  laid  down. 

Twelve  hundred  servile  miscreants, 
With  all  their  colors,^  g^ns,  and  tents, 
Were  trophies  of  the  day. 


152  BATTLE    OF    TRENTON. 

The  frolic  o'er,  the  bright  canteen, 
In  centre,  front,  and  rear  was  seen 
Driving  fatigue  away. 

Now,  brothers  of  the  patriot  bands, 
Let's  sing  deliverance  from  the  hands 

Of  arbitrary  sway. 
And  as  our  life  is  but  a  span, 
Let's  touch  the  tankard  while  we  can. 

In  memory  of  that  day. 

'  Battle  of  Trenton.  Curiosities  of  American  Literature,  byRxifus 
W.  Griswold. 

"^  Some  scampe/d  there.  "It  is  said  some  Hessian  oflScers  and 
other  mercenaries,  were  greatly  disturbed  one  morning,  at  Trenton, 
when  they  waked  up  and  found  rebels  knocking  in  their  doors." 

^  With  all  their  colxyrs.  "  On  the  Hessian  standards  taken  at 
Trenton,  were  the  words :  '  Nescit  Pericula,^ — a  fearlessness  of  dan- 
ger,— which  was  not  displayed  in  the  battle  where  the  standards 
were  surrendered,  and  which  hath  drawn  on  the  timid  Hessian,  and 
his  vaunting  motto,  the  following  epigram  : 

"  The  man  who  submits  without  striking  a  blow, 
May  be  said,  in  a  sense,  no  danger  to  know : 
I  pray  then,  what  harm,  by  the  humble  submission, 
At  Trenton  was  done  by  the  standard  of  Hessian?  '  " 

.V;  n.  Gmett«. 


OR    THE    YEAR. 
1776. 


Tbis  song  "was  probably  written  in  England.    Tbere  were  several 
versions  of  it  published  in  this  country.     We  select  the  best. 


THE  HEADS. 

Ye  wrong  heads,  and  strong  heads  attend  to  mj  strains ; 
Ye  clear  heads,  and  queer  heads,   and  heads  without 

brains ; 
Ye  thick  skulls,  and  quick  skulls,  and  heads  great  and 

small ; 
^Lud  ye  heads  that  aspire  to  be  heads  over  all. 
Berry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 

7* 


154  THE    HEADS. 

Ye  ladies — I  would  not  offend  for  the  world, 

Whose  bright  heads,  and  light  heads,  are  feather'd  and 

curl'd ; 
The  mighty  dimensions  dame  Nature  surprise. 
To  find  she'd  so  grossly  mistaken  the  size. 

And  ye  petit-maitres,  your  heads  I  might  spare, 
Encumber'd  with  nothing — but  powder  and  hair ; 
Who  vainly  disgrace  the  true  monkey  race, 
By  transplanting  the  tail  from  its  own  native  place. 

Enough  might  be  said,  durst  I  venture  my  rhymes. 
On  cro\vn'd  heads,  and  round  heads,  of  these  modern 

times; 
This  slippery  path  let  me  cautiously  tread — 
The  neck  else  may  answer,  perhaps,  for  the  head. 

The  heads  of  the  church,  and  the  heads  of  the  state, 
Have  taught  much,  and  wrought  much, — too  much  to 

repeat ; 
On  the  neck  of  corruption  uplifted,  'tis  said, 
Some  rulers,  alas !  are  too  high  by  the  head. 


THE    HEADS.  156 

Ye  schemers  and  dreamers  of  politic  things, 
Projecting  the  downfall  of  kingdoms  and  kings ; 
Can  your  wisdom  declare  how  this  body  is  fed, 
When  the  members  rebel  and  wage  war. with  the  head  ? 

Expounders,  confounders,  and  heads  of  the  law, 
I  bring  case  in  point,  do  not  point  out  a  flaw; 
If  reason  is  treason,  what  plea  shall  I  plead  ? 
To  your  chief  I  appeal — for  your  chief  has  a  head. 

On  Britannia's  bosom  sweet  Liberty  smil'd, 

The  parent  grew  strong  while  she  foster'd  the  child, 

Neglecting  her  offspring,  a  fever  she  bred, 

Which  contracted  her  limbs,  and  distracted  her  head. 

Ye  learned  state  doctors,  your  labors  are  vain, 
Proceeding  by  bleeding  to  settle  her  brain ; 
Much  less  can  your  art  the  lost  members  restore. 
Amputation  must  follow — perhaps  something  more. 

Pale  Goddess  of  Whim  !  when  with  cheeks  lean  or  full. 
Thy  influence  seizes  an  Englishman's  skull, 
He  blunders,  yet  wonders  his  schemes  ever  fail, 
Tho'  often  mistaking  the  head  for  the  tail. 

Derry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 


1776. 

This  parody  on  the  "Watery  God"  was  occasioned  hy  the  suc- 
cess of  the  Americans  at  Trenton  and  Princeton.  It  was  puhlished 
a  short  time  after  those  victories,  and  soon  became  a  favorite. 

A  PARODY. 

As  Mars,  great  god  of  battles  !  lay, 
In  dalliance  soft  and  amorous  play. 

On  fair  Bellona's  breast ; 
Surpris'd  he  rear'd  his  hoary  head, 
The  conscious  goddess  shook  with  dread, 

And  all  her  fears  confess'd. 


"THE    JERSEYS.  157 

Loud  thunder  roll'd  through  Heaven's  domain, 
The  ethereal  world  was  wrapt  in  flame, 

The  god  amazed  spoke  : 
Gro  forth,  ye  powers,  and  make  it  known. 
Who  dares  thus  boldly  shake  my  throne. 

And  fill  my  realms  with  smoke. 

The  gods,  obsequious  to  his  word, 
Sprang  swiftly  forth  t'  obey  their  lord. 

And  saw  two  hosts  away ; 
The  one,  great  Washington,  was  thine ; 
The  other,  Howe's  disordered  line. 

In  sorrow  and  dismay. 

Appall'd  they  view'd  Columbia's  sons. 
Deal  death  and  slaughter  from  their  guns. 

And  strike  a  dreadful  blow. 
Which  made  ill-fated  British  slaves. 
On  distant  shores  to  find  their  graves, 

And  sink  to  shades  below. 

Amaz'd  they  tell  of  battles  won. 
That  Britain's  ruin'd ;  Washington 
Alone  triumphant  rode; 


168  THE   JERSEYS. 

Ha  !  cries  the  fair,  pray  who  is  he 
That  dare's  reverse  e'en  Jove's  decree, 
And  thus  insult  a  god  ? 

The  gods  reply,  in  yonder  lands. 
Great  Liberty  alone  commands. 

And  gives  the  hero  force  ; 
And  when  his  thundering  cannon  roar, 
And  strike  with  dread  earth's  distant  shore, 

'Tis  she  directs  their  course. 

And  when  her  winged  bullets  fly, 
To  check  a  tyrant's  treachery, 

And  lay  his  glories  low ; 
Then  Washington  serenely  great, 
Tho'  death  and  carnage  round  him  wait, 

Performs  the  dreadful  blow. 

The  god  with  wonder  heard  the  story, 
Astonish'd  view'd  Columbia's  glory. 

Which  time  can  ne'er  subdue, 
G-reat  Warren's  deeds,  and  Gates's  fame, 
Join'd  to  great  Lee's  immortal  name  ;^ 

And  cried,  Can  this  be  true  ? 


THE    JERSETS.  159 

Britain  shall  cease  to  plague  mankind, 
With  sister  tyrants  strive  to  bind, 

And  check  the  free-born  soul ; 
To  Washington  her  trophies  yield, 
Freedom  shall  triumph  in  the  field, 

And  rule  from  pole  to  pole. 

^  Lee!s  imnwrtcd  name.  General  Charles  Lee  was  taken  prisoner 
in  1776  while  marching  through  New  Jersey  to  join  General  Wash- 
ington, and  was  not  exchanged  until  1778.  This  song  was  written 
while  he  remained  with  the  British. 


%hj  |t(i|tetic  «gg. 


1777. 

The  following  lines  appeared  in  the  early  part  of  1777,  with  this 
introduction.  "  As  the  superstition  and  weakness  of  human  nature  is 
such,  that  sometimes  the  most  triAdal  circumstance  ;  or  grossest  ab- 
surdity is  attended  with  serious  consequences,  we  acquaint  the 
timid  and  credulous,  that  characters  inscribed  on  adamant  are  much 
more  durable  than  when  wrote  only  on  an  egg-sheU.  And  also  in- 
form the  public,  that  about  the  time  the  prophetic  egg  was  laid  in 
the  town  of  Plymouth,  with  this  wonderful  prediction  wrote  on  its 
shell,  "Oyi,  oil,  America,  Howe  shall  be  ik^  conqueror,'"  a  hermit,  re- 
sembling the  Genius  of  America,  who  had  resided  in  a  certain  forest 
from  the  first  settlement  of  the  country,  found  the  following  lines 
inscribed  on  a  fragment  of  marble  near  his  cave,  visited  by  the  cu- 
rious from  all  parts  of  Europe,  for  the  remarkable  echo,  which  oft 
reverberated  in  loud  peals,  heard  beyond  the  Atlantic." 

ANOTHER  PROPHECY.^ 

Britannia  sinks  beneath  her  crimes, 
She  dies  —  she  dies  —  let  empire  rise, 
And  freedom  cheer  the  western  skies. 


THE    PROPHETIC    EGG.  161 

When  every  art  and  menace  fails, 
And  Tory  lies  and  Tory  tales, 
Are  universally  abhorr'd, 
They  now  pretend  to  fear  the  Lord. 
Instead  of  virtue,  a  long  face ; 
Instead  of  piety,  grimace ; 
Pretend  strange  revelation  given, 
And  intimation  sent  from  Heaven. 

To  carry  on  the  schemes  of  Bute, 
A  speaking  egg  they  substitute. 
A  strange  phenomenon  indeed. 
The  stratagem  must  sure  succeed ; 
And  every  mortal  die  with  fear, 
When  they  the  sad  prediction  hear. 

The  egg  was  laid  without  the  tent, 
Ergo,  it  was  from  Heaven  sent. 
The  egg  was  found  within  a  barn, 
Ergo,  from  it,  we  surely  learn, 
When  eggs  can  speak  what  fools  indite, 
And  hens  can  talk  as  well  as  write, 
When  crocodiles  shed  honest  tears, 
And  truth  with  hypocrites  appears ; 
When  every  man  becomes  a  knave, 
And  feels  the  spirit  of  the  slave ; 


162  THE    PROPHETIC    EGG. 

And  when  veracity  again, 
Shall  in  a  Tory's  bosom  reign ; 
When  vice  is  virtue,  darkness  light, 
And  freemen  are  afraid  to  fight ; 
When  they  forget  to  play  the  men. 
And  with  the  spirit  of  a  hen, 
Desert  the  just  and  sacred  cause  ; 
And  opening  Heaven  smiles  applause 
On  such  a  bloody,  barbarous  foe. 
Then  I'll  be  conquered  by  a  Howe. 

^  Another  propheq^.  The  credulity  of  the  ignorant  Avas  often  im- 
posed on  by  the  advocates  of  both  parties,  during  the  revohition. 
The  following  extract  from  a  letter,  written  a  short  time  after  the 
battle  at  Trenton,  will  explain  itself.  "  The  enemy  appear  to  be 
panic-struck  in  the  extreme.  God  prospers  our  arms  in  an  extraor- 
dinary manner.  There  is  to  be  an  eclipse  of  the  sun  to-day,  and  we 
mean,  if  possible,  to  attack  the  Germans  as  soon  as  it  begins,  and 
take  advantage  of  their  ignorant  superstition." 


%s  '§xltm. 

nil. 

The  following  bold  lines  are  taken  from  the  "  Craftsman,  or  Say's 
British  Journal."  The  American  newspapers,  both  loyal  and  whig, 
generally  republished  them. 

TO  BRITAIN. 

Blush  Britain  !  blush  at  thy  inglorious  war, 
This  civil  contest,  this  ignoble  jar; 
Think  how  unjustly  you've  begun  the  fray, 
With  cruel  measures  rous'd  America. 

To  arms :  each  swain  must  leave  the  peaceful  field, 
And  'gainst  his  brethren  lift  the  sword  and  shield. 
Their  spacious  commerce,  now  in  ruin  lies, 
And  thro'  their  land  the  hostile  standard  flies. 


164 


TO    BRITAIN. 


Britain,  what  laurel  canst  thou  hope  to  gain  ? 
Can  any  action  give  a  hero  fame  ? 
In  brother's  blood  our  soldiers'  hands  imbru'd, 
And  barb'rous  hostiles  by  our  chiefs  pursu'd. 

Afflicting  Britain,  thus  to  spoil  thy  name, 
Defeat's  a  scandal,  conquest  but  a  shame. 
Our  senators  all  lost  in  dire  excess. 
Lovers  of  pleasure,  luxury,  and  dress. 

Almighty  ruler,  stretch  thy  potent  hand, 
And  o'er  Britannia  wave  the  olive  wand ; 
Preserve  our  nation  from  th'  impending  fate. 
Drive  clouds  of  Scotchmen  from  the  British  state ; 
Fair  peace  descend,  with  all  thy  prosp'rous  train. 
And  spread  thy  blessings  o'er  our  spacious  plain. 


1777. 

This  song  "  was  sung  before  General  Sullivan  and  a  few  respecta- 
ble gentlemen,  at  Portsmouth,  New  Hampshire,  after  the  battle  of 
Trenton.'*  « 

GENERAL  SULLIVAN'S  SONG. 

Hakk,  the  loud  drums,  hark,  the  shrill  trumpet-oall  to 

arms. 
Come,  Americans  come,  prepare  for  war's  alarms, 
Whilst  in  array  we  stand, 
What  soldier  dare  to  land. 
Sure  in  the  attempt  to  meet  his  doom, 
A  leaden  death,  or  a  watery  tomb ; 


166  GENERAL  SULLIVAN's  SONG. 

We,  Americans,  so  brave,  o'er  the  land  or  the  waves, 
All  invaders  defy,  we'll  repulse  them  or  die, 
We  scorn  to  live  as  slaves. 

Recall  the  days,  wherein  our  fathers  bravely  fought, 
And  crown' d  with  praise,  they  patriot  glory  sought, 
Bid  their  high  deeds  inspire. 
Bid  Magna  Charta  fire, 
Greatly  they  labor'd  for  our  good 
All  sorts  of  tyranny  withstood, 
All  these  we  despise,  on  our  courage  rely, 
For  what  American  so  base  would  his  country  disgrace 
And  from  his  colors  fly. 

No  party  spite,  no  more  our  measures  will  oppose, 
For  all  unite  against  our  insulting  foes, 
All  then  in  chorus  sing, 
And  let  your  voices  ring. 
Fill  unto  Sullivan  the  flowing  bowl, 
Hand  it  to  each  gallant  soul. 
Raise  patriot  flame,  his  glory  proclaim 
Who  his  sword  boldly  draws  in  his  country's  cause. 
And  wins  an  endless  name. 


1777. 

On  the  fom-tli  of  July,  1777,  General  Burgoyne  issued  a  pro- 
clamation from  his  camp,  near  Ticonderoga,  intended  to  spread 
terror  among  the  Americans.  But  it  was  so  pompous  and  bombas- 
tic, that,  instead  of  producing  the  desired  effect,  it  became  the  subject 
of  ridicule  and  derision.  The  subjoined  version  of  it,  is  attributed 
to  Francis  Hopkinson. 

BURGOYNE'S  PROCLAMATION. 

By  John  Burgoyne,  and  Burgoyne,  John,  Esq., 

And  grac'd  with  titles  still  more  higher,' 

For  I'm  Lieutenant-general,  too. 

Of  Greorge's  troops  both  red  and  blue, 

On  this  extensive  continent  ; 

And  of  Queen  Charlotte's  regiment 


168  .     burgoyne's  proclamation. 

Of  light  dragoons  the  Colonel ; 
And  Governor  eke  of  Castle  Wil — 
And  furthermore,  Tvhen  I  am  there, 
In  House  of  Commons  I  appear, 
[Hoping  ere  long  to  be  a  Peer.] 
Being  a  member  of  that  virtuous  band 
Who  always  vote  at  North's  command ; 
Directing  too  the  fleet  and  troops 
From  Canada  as  thick  as  hops  ; 
And  all  my  titles  to  display, 
I'll  end  with  thrice  et  cetera. 

The  troops  consign'd  to  my  command 
Like  Hercules  to  purge  the  land. 
Intend  to  act  in  combination 
With  th'  other  forces  of  the  nation, 
Displaying  wide  thro'  every  quarter 
What  Britain's  justice  would  be  after. 
It  is  not  difficult  to  show  it, 
And  every  mother's  son  must  know  it, 
That  what  she  meant  at  first  to  gain 
By  requisitions  and  chicane. 
She's  now  determin'd  to  acquire 
By  kingly  reason ;  sword  and  fire. 


burgoyne's  proclamation.  169 

I  can  appeal  to  all  your  senses, 

Your  judgments,  feelings,  tastes  and  fancies ; 

four  ears  and  eyes  have  heard  and  seen, 

How  causeless  this  revolt  has  been ; 

And  what  a  dust  your  leaders  kick  up ; 

In  this  rebellious  civil  hickup, 

And  how,  upon  this  curs'd  foundation, 

Was  rear'd  the  system  of  vexation 

Over  a  stubborn  generation. 

But  now  inspired  with  patriot  love 
I  come  th'  oppression  to  remove ; 
To  free  you  from  the  heavy  clog 
Of  every  tyrant  demagogue. 
Who  for  the  most  romantic  story. 
Claps  into  limbo  loyal  Tory, 
All  hurly  burly,  hot  and  hasty, 
Without  a  writ  to  hold  him  fast  by ; 
Nor  suffers  any  living  creature, 
[Led  by  the  dictates  of  his  nature,] 
To  fight  in  green  for  Britain's  cause, 
Or  aid  us  to  restore  her  laws ; 
In  short,  the  vilest  generation 
Which  in  vindictive  indignation, 


170  burgoyne' 

Almighty  vengeance  ever  hurl'd 

From  this  to  the  infernal  world. 

A  Tory  cannot  move  his  tongue, 

But  whip,  in  prison  he  is  flung, 

His  goods  and  chattels  made  a  prey. 

By  those  vile  mushrooms  of  a  day. 

He's  tortur'd  too,  and  scratch'd  and  bit, 

And  plung'd  into  a  dreary  pit ; 

"Where  he  must  suffer  sharper  doom, 

Than  e'er  was  hatched  by  Church  of  Rome. 

These  things  are  done  by  rogues,  who  dare 

Profess  to  breathe  in  Freedom's  air. 

To  petticoats  alike  and  breeches 

Their  cruel  domination  stretches. 

For  the  sole  crime,  or  sole  suspicion 

[What  worse  is  done  by  th'  inquisition  ?] 

Of  still  adhering  to  the  crown. 

Their  tyrants  striving  to  kick  down, 

Who  by  perverting  law  and  reason. 

Allegiance  construe  into  treason. 

Relio-ion  too  is  often  made 

o 

A  stalking  horse  to  drive  the  trade. 
And  warring  churches  dare  implore, 
Protection  from  th'  Almighty  pow'r; 


burgoyne's  proclamation.  171 

They  fast  and  pray  :  in  Providence 
Profess  to  place  their  confidence ; 
And  vainly  think  the  Lord  of  all 
Regards  our  squabbles  on  this  ball ; 
Which  would  appear  as  droll  in  Britain 
As  any  whim  that  one  could  hit  on ; 
Men's  consciences  are  set  at  naught, 
Nor  reason  valued  at  a  groat ; 
And  they  that  will  not  swear  and  fight, 
Must  sell  their  all,  and  say  good  night. 

By  such  important  views  there  pres't  to, 
I  issue  this  my  manifesto. 
I,  the  great  knight  of  de  la  Mancha, 
Without  'Sijuire  Carleton,  my  Sancho, 
Will  tear  you  limb  from  limb  asunder, 
With  cannon,  blunderbuss  and  thunder; 
And  spoil  your  feathering  and  your  tarring ; 
And  cagg  you  up  for  pickled  herring. 
In  front  of  troops  as  spruce  as  beaux, 
And  ready  to  lay  on  their  blows, 
I'll  spread  destruction  far  and  near  ; 
And  where  I  cannot  kill,  I'll  spare, 
Inviting,  by  these  presents,  all, 
Both  young  and  old,  and  great  and  small, 


172  burgoyne's  proclamation. 

And  rich  and  poor,  and  "Whig  and  Tory, 

In  cellar  deep,  or  lofty  story ; 

Where'er  my  troops  at  my  command 

Shall  swarm  like  locusts  o'er  the  land. 

(And  they  shall  march  from  the  North  Pole 

As  far,  at  least,  as  Pensacole,) 

So  break  off  their  communications, 

That  I  can  save  their  habitations ; 

For  finding  that  Sir  William's  plunders. 

Prove  in  the  event  apparent  blunders, 

It  is  my  full  determination. 

To  check  all  kinds  of  depredation  ; 

But  when  I've  got  you  in  my  pow'r, 

Favor'd  is  he,  I  last  devour. 

From  him  who  loves  a  quiet  life, 
And  keeps  at  home  to  kiss  his  wife. 
And  drinks  success  to  king  Pigmalion, 
And  calls  all  Congresses  Rabscallion, 
With  neutral  stomach  eats  his  supper. 
Nor  deems  the  contest  worth  a  copper ; 
I  will  not  defalcate  a  groat, 
Nor  force  his  wife  to  cut  his  throat ; 
But  with  his  doxy  he  may  stay, 
And  live  to  fight  another  day ; 


173 


Drink  all  the  cider  lie  has  made, 

And  have  to  boot,  a  green  cockade. 

But  as  I  like  a  good  Sir  Loin, 

And  mutton  chop  whene'er  I  dine, 

And  my  poor  troops  have  long  kept  Lent, 

Not  for  religion,  but  for  want, 

Whoe'er  secretes  cow,  bull  or  ox, 

Or  shall  presume  to  hide  his  flocks ; 

Or  with  felonious  hand  eloign 

Pig,  duck,  or  gosling  from  Burgoyne, 

Or  dare  to  pull  the  bridges  down. 

My  boys  to  puzzle  or  to  drown  ; 

Or  smuggle  hay,  or  plough,  or  harrow. 

Cart,  horses,  wagons  or  wheelbarrow ; 

Or  'thwart  the  path,  lay  straw  or  switch, 

As  folks  are  wont  to  stop  a  witch, 

I'll  hang  him  as  the  Jews  did  Haman ; 

And  smoke  his  carcase  for  a  gammon. 

I'll  pay  in  coin  for  what  I  eat. 

Or  Continental  counterfeit. 

But  what's  more  likely  still,  I  shall 

(So  fare  my  troops,)  not  pay  at  all. 

With  the  most  Christian  spirit  fir'd, 
And  by  true  soldiership  inspir'd, 


174 


I  speak  as  men  do  in  a  passion 

To  give  my  speech  the  more  impression. 

If  any  should  so  harden'd  be, 

As  to  expect  impunity, 

Because  procul  a  fulmine, 

I  will  let  loose  the  dogs  of  Hell, 

Ten  thousand  Indians,  who  shall  yell, 

And  foam  and  tear,  and  grin  and  roar, 

And  drench  their  moccasins  in  gore  ; 

To  these  I'll  give  full  scope  and  play 

From  Ticonderog  to  Florida  ; 

They'll  scalp  your  heads,  and  kick  your  shins, 

And  rip  your ,  and  flay  your  skins. 

And  of  your  ears  be  nimble  croppers. 
And  make  your  thumbs  tobacco-stoppers. 
If  after  all  these  loving  warnings, 
My  wishes  and  my  bowels'  yearnings, 
You  shall  remain  as  deaf  as  adder, 
Or  grow  with  hostile  rage  the  madder, 
I  swear  by  George,  and  by  St.  Paul 
I  will  exterminate  you  all. 
Subscrib'd  with  my  manual  sign 
To  test  these  presents,  John  Burgoyne. 


175 


still  more  higher.  In  his  pvocliimation  the  General  an- 
nounced himself  as  "John  Burgoyne,  Esq.,  Lieutenant-general  of 
his  Majesty's  armies  in  America,  Colonel  of  the  Queen's  regiment 
of  light  dragoons,  Governor  of  fort  William  in  North  Britahi,  one 
of  the  representatives  of  the  Commons  of  Great  Britain  in  Parha- 
ment,  and  commanding  an  army  and  fleet  employed  on  an  e  ipedi- 
tion  from  Canada,  &c.  &c.  &c."  On  the  surrender  of  the  British 
army  in  the  autumn  of  1777,  Governor  William  Livingston,  of  New 
Jersey,  proposed  to  exchange  Burgoyne,  "  in  such  a  manner  as 
would,  at  the  same  time,  flatter  his  vanity,  and  redound  to  the 
greatest  emolument  of  America."  He  proposed  to  detain  him  until 
"  we  can  get  in  exchange  for  him,  one  Esquire,  two  Major-generals, 
three  Colonels  of  light  horse,  two  Governors,  one  member  of  Con- 
gress, the  Admiral  of  our  navy,  one  Commander-in-chief>  in  a 
separate  department,  and  six  privates." 


<gOTt0p  ^0ng. 


1777. 

This  ballad  was  known  during  the  revolution,  as  the  "  North 
Campaign,"  "  Gates'  Song,"  and  "  A  Song  for  the  Red-Coats."  It 
has  been  attributed  to  a  "  private  of  Colonel  Brook's  regiment,"  ^ 
and  aJso  to  the  author  of  *'  American  Taxation." 


A  SONG  FOR  THE  RED-COATS. 

Come  unto  me  ye  heroes 

Whose  hearts  are  true  and  bold, 
Who  value  more  your  honor, 

Than  others  do  their  gold ; 
Give  ear  unto  my  story, 

And  I  the  truth  will  tell, 
Concerning  many  a  soldier, 

Who  for  his  country  fell. 


SARATOGA    SONG.  177 

Burgoyne,  the  king's  commander, 

From  Canada  set  sail, 
With  full  eight  thousand  reg'lars, 

He  thought  he  could  not  fail ; 
With  Indians  and  Canadians, 

And  his  curs'd  Tory  crew, 
On  board  his  fleet  of  shipping, 

He  up  the  Champlain  flew. 

Before  Ticonderoga, 

The  first  day  of  July, 
Appear'd  his  ships  and  army. 

And  we  did  them  espy. 
Their  motions  we  observed. 

Full  well  both  night  and  day, 
And  our  brave  boys  prepared, 

To  have  a  bloody  fray. 

Our  garrison  they  viewed  them, 

And  straight  their  troops  did  land, 

And  when  St.  Clair,  our  chieftain, 
The  fact  did  understand, 

8* 


178  SARATOGA    SONG. 

That  they  the  Mount  Defiance 
Were  bent  to  fortify, 

He  found  we  must  surrender, 
Or  else  prepare  to  die. 

The  fifth  day  of  July,  then, 

He  ordered  a  retreat, 
And  when  next  morn  we  started, 

Burgoyne  thought  we  were  beat. 
And  closely  he  pursued  us, 

Till  when  near  Hubbardton, 
Our  rear  guards  were  defeated, 

He  thought  the  country  won. 

And  when  'twas  told  in  Congress, 

That  we  our  forts  had  left. 
To  Albany  retreated, 

Of  all  the  North  bereft ; 
Brave  G-eneral  Gates  they  sent  us, 

Our  fortunes  to  retrieve. 
And  him  with  shouts  of  gladness, 

The  army  did  receive. 


SARATOGA    SONG.  179 

Where  first  the  Mohawk's  waters, 

Do  in  the  sunshine  play, 
For  Herkimer's  brave  soldiers, 

Sellinger  "  ambush'd  lay  ; 
And  them  he  there  defeated, 

But  soon  he  had  his  due, 
And  scared  by  Brooks  and  Arnold, 

He  to  the  north  withdrew. 


To  take  the  stores  and  cattle. 

That  we  had  gather'd  then, 
Burgoyne  sent  a  detachment 

Of  fifteen  hundred  men ; 
By  Baum  they  were  commanded, 

To  Bennington  they  went ; 
To  plunder  and  to  murder, 

Was  fully  their  intent. 

But  little  did  they  know  then. 

With  whom  they  had  to  deal, 

It  was  not  quite  so  easy, 

Our  stores  and  stock  to  steal; 


180  SARATOGA    SONG. 

Bold  Stark  would  give  them  only, 
A  portion  of  his  lead  ; 

With  half  his  crew  ere  sunset, 
Baum  lay  among  the  dead. 

The  nineteenth  of  September, 

The  morning  cool  and  clear, 
Brave  Gates  rode  through  our  army, 

Each  soldier's  heart  to  cheer ; 
"  Burgoyne,"  he  cried,  "  advances, 

But  we  will  never  fly ; 
No  —  rather  than  surrender, 

We'll  fight  him  till  we  die." 

The  news  was  quickly  brought  us. 

The  enemy  was  near. 
And  all  along  our  lines  then 

There  was  no  signs  of  fear ; 
It  was  above  Stillwater 

We  met  at  noon  that  day. 
And  every  one  expected 

To  see  a  bloody  fray. 


SARATOGA    SONG.  181 

Six  hours  the  battle  lasted, 

Each  heart  was  true  as  gold, 
The  British  fought  like  lions, 

And  we  like  Yankees  bold; 
The  leaves  with  blood  were  crimson. 

And  then  brave  Gates  did  cry — 
"  'Tis  diamond  now  cut  diamond! 

We'll  beat  them  boys  or  die." 

The  darkness  soon  approaching. 

It  forced  us  to  retreat, 
Into  our  lines  till  morning, 

Which  made  them  think  us  beat ; 
But  ere  the  sun  was  risen. 

They  saw  before  their  eyes. 
Us  ready  to  engage  them. 

Which  did  them  much  surprise. 

Of  fighting  they  seem  weary, 

Therefore  to  work  they  go. 
Their  thousand  dead  to  bury. 

And  breastworks  up  to  throw ; 


182  SARATOGA    SONG. 

With  grape  and  bombs  intending 
Our  army  to  destroy, 

Or  from  oui*  works  our  forces 
By  stratagem  decoy. 

The  seventh  day  of  October, 

The  British  tried  again, 
Shells  from  their  cannons  throwing, 

Which  fell  on  us  like  rain ; 
To  drive  us  from  our  stations, 

That  they  might  thus  retreat ; 
For  now  Burgoyne  saw  plainly, 

He  never  could  us  beat. 

But  vain  was  his  endeavor 

Our  men  to  terrify ; 
Though  death  was  all  around  us. 

Not  one  .of  us  would  fly. 
But  when  an  hour  we'd  fought  them. 

And  they  began  to  yield. 
Along  our  lines  the  cry  ran, 

'*  The  next  blow  wins  the  field !" 


SARATOGA    SONG.  183 

G-reat  G-od,  who  guides  their  battles, 

Whose  cause  is  just  and  true, 
Inspire  our  bold  commander. 

The  course  he  should  pursue. 
He  ordered  Arnold  forward, 

And  Brooks  to  follow  on  ; 
The  enemy  was  routed  ! 

Our  liberty  was  won ! 

Then  burning  all  their  luggage, 

They  fled  with  haste  and  fear, 
Burgoyne  with  all  his  forces, 

To  Saratogue  did  steer ; 
And  Gates,  our  brave  commander. 

Soon  after  him  did  hie. 
Resolving  he  would  take  them. 

Or  in  the  effort  die. 


As  we  came  nigh  the  village. 

We  overtook  the  foe ; 
They'd  burned  each  house  to  ashes, 

Like  all  where'er  they  go. 


184  SARATOGA    SONG. 

The  seventeenth  of  October, 

They  did  capitulate, 
Burgoyne  and  his  proud  army. 

Did  we  our  pris'ners  make. 

Now,  here's  a  health  to  Arnold, 

And  our  commander  Gates, 
To  Lincoln  and  to  Washington, 

Whom  every  Tory  hates ; 
Likewise  unto  our  Congress, 

Grod  grant  it  long  to  reign ; 
Our  Country,  Right,  and  Justice, 

For  ever  to  maintain. 

Now  finish'd  is  my  story. 

My  song  is  at  an  end ; 
The  freedom  we're  enjoying 

We're  ready  to  defend ; 
For  while  our  cause  is  righteous. 

Heaven  nerves  the  soldier's  arm, 
And  vain  is  their  endeavor. 

Who  strive  to  do  us  harm. 

^  Curiosities  of  Americau   Literature,  by  Rufus  W.  Griswold, 
page  32. 

'  St.  Leger^  pronounced  Sellinger. 


1777. 

A  very  few  ballads  were  published  during  the  year  1777.  '*  For 
some  reason  the  muse  is  asleep,"  says  the  editor  of  the  Xew  Jersey 
Journal,  shortly  after  the  defeat  of  Burgoyne. 

THE  FATE  OF  JOHN  BURGOYNE. 

When  Jack,  the  King's  commander, 

Was  going  to  his  duty, 
Through  all  the  crowd  he  smil'd  and  bow'd. 

To  every  blooming  "beauty. 

The  city  rung  with  feats  he'd  done, 

In  Portugal  and  Flanders, 
And  all  the  town  thought  he'd  be  crown'd 

The  first  of  Alexanders. 


186  THE    FATE    OF    JOHN    BURGOYNE. 

To  Hampton  Court  he  first  repairs, 
To  kiss  great  G-eorge's  hand,  sirs. 

Then  to  harangue  on  state  affairs, 
Before  he  left  the  land,  sirs. 

The  "  lower  house  "  sat  mute  as  mouse. 
To  hear  his  grand  oration ; 

And  "  all  the  peers  "  with  loudest  cheers, 
Proclaim'd  him  to  the  nation. 

Then  off  he  went  to  Canada, 

Next  to  Ticonderoga, 
And  quitting  those,  away  he  goes. 

Straightway  to  Saratoga. 

With  great  parade  his  march  he  made, 
To  gain  his  wished  for  station, 

When  far  and  wide  his  minions  hied, 
To  spread  his  "  Proclamation." 

To  such  as  staid  he  offers  made, 
Of  "  pardon  on  submission ; 

But  savage  bands  should  waste  the  lands 
Of  all  in  opposition." 


THE    FATE    OF    JOHN    BURGOYNE.  187 

But  ah,  the  cruel  fate  of  war  ! 

This  boasted  son  of  Britain, 
When  mounting  his  triumphal  car, 

With  sudden  fear  was  smitten. 

The  sons  of  freedom  gathered  round, 

His  hostile  bands  confounded, 
And  when  they'd  fain  have  turn'd  their  back, 

They  found  themselves  surrounded  ! 

In  vain  they  fought,  in  vain  they  fled, 
Their  chief,  humane  and  tender. 

To  save  the  rest,  soon  thought  it  best 
His  forces  to  surrender. 

Brave  St.  Clair  when  he  first  retired, 
Knew  what  the  fates  portended ; 

And  Arnold  and  heroic  Gates, 
His  conduct  have  defended. 

Thus  may  America's  brave  sons 

With  honor  be  rewarded. 
And  be  the  fate  of  all  her  foes. 

The  same  as  here  recorded. 


itirppe's  ©tj^rt|T0to, 


1777. 

This  poetical  "  army  return  "  was  first  published  in  the  "  Iris," 
(June,  1841,)  from  the  original  MS.  in  the  possession  of  George  H. 
Moore,  one  of  the  editors  of  that  periodical.  It  is  a  resume  of  the 
losses  of  the  British  army  during  the  northern  campaign  which  ter- 
minated at  Saratoga,  and,  as  AviU  be  noticed  by  the  reader,  gives  the 
results  in  round  numbers. 

BURGOYNE'S  OVERTHROW  AT  SARATOGA. 

Here  foUowetli  the  direful  fate 

Of  Burgoyne  and  his  army  great, 

Who  so  proudly  did  display 

The  terrors  of  despotic  sway. 

His  power,  and  pride,  and  many  threats. 

Have  been  brought  low  by  fort'nate  Gates, 

To  bend  to  the  United  States. 


burgoyne's  overthrow. 


189 


British  prisoners  by  Convention, 
Foreigners — by  Contra- vention, 
Tories  sent  across  the  Lake, 
Burgoyne  and  suite,  in  state. 
Sick  and  wounded,  bruised  and  pounded, 
Ne'er  so  much  before  confounded, 
Prisoners  of  war  before  Convention, 
Deserters  come  with  kind  intention, 
They  lost  at  Bennington's  great  battle. 
Where  glorious  Starke's  arms  did  rattle, 
Killed  in  September  and  October,. 
Ta'en  by  brave  Brown,  some  drunk,  some 
Slain  by  high-famed  Herkerman,) 
On  both  flanks,  on  rear  and  van,) 
Indians,  suttlers,  and  drovers, 
Enough  to  crowd  large  plains  all  over. 
And  those  whom  grim  Death  did  prevent 
From  fighting  against  our  continent ; 
And  also  those  who  stole  away, 
Lest  down  their  arms  they  should  lay, 
Abhorring  that  obnoxious  day  ; 
The  whole  make  fourteen  thousand  men. 
Who  may  not  with  us  fight  again. 


sober, 


2442 

2198 

1100 

12 

528 

400 
300 

1220 

600 
413 

300 


4413 


14,000 


190 


This  is  a  pretty  just  account 

Of  Burgoyne's  legions  whole  amount, 

Who  came  across  the  Northern  Lakes 

To  desolate  our  happy  States. 

Their  brass  cannons  we  have  got  all — 

Fifty-six — both  great  and  small ; 

And  ten  thousand  stand  of  arms, 

To  prevent  all  future  harms ; 

Stores  and  implements  complete, 

Of  workmanship  exceeding  neat ; 

Covered  wagons  in  great  plenty, 

And  proper  harness,  no  way  scanty. 

Among  our  prisoners  there  are 

Six  Generals,  of  fame  most  rare ; 

Six  members  of  their  Parliament — 

Reluctantly  they  seem  content ; 

Three  British  Lords,  and  Lord  Bellcaras, 

Who  came,  our  country  free  to  harass. 

Two  Baronets  of  high  extraction, 

Were  sorely  wounded  in  the  action. 


1778. 

The  defeat  of  General  Burgoyne  caused  great  alarm  and  uneasi- 
ness in  England.  Parliameut  soon  after  that  event  sent  commis- 
sioners to  the  Continental  Congress,  with  proposals  for  a  mutual 
adjustment  of  the  existing  difficulties,  couched  in  the  most  concilia- 
tory and  plausible  terms,  and  calculated  to  occasion  disaffection 
among  the  people  of  the  colonies,  who,  in  many  instances  were  be- 
coming disheartened  and  tired  of  the  war.  Fearing  such  an  event, 
Congress  immediately  published  an  address,  wherein  they  fully  ex- 
posed the  snare  prepared  by  the  royal  commissioners ;  and,  at  the 
same  time,  encouraged  the  patriots  with  the  brightest  prospect  of 
success,  in  the  final  establishment  of  their  liberty  and  independence. 
This  address  had  the  desired  effect.  The  people  resolved  not  to  be 
deceived.  The  following  ballad  appeared  before  the  royal  commis- 
sioners returned  to  England,  in  a  double-columned  sheet,  adapted  to 
the  tune,  "  A  late  worthy  old  Lion." 

•  A  NEW  SONG. 

West  of  the  old  Atlantic,  firm  Liberty  stands ! 
Hov'ring  Fame  just  alighted,  supported  by  bands 


192  THE    GAMESTER. 

Of  natives  free  born,  wlio  loud  eclioing  sing, 
"  We'll  support  our  just  rights  'gainst  tyrannic  kings  ! " 
Caral-laddy — caral-laddy,  &c. 

George  the  Third  she  disowns  and  his  proud  lordly  cheats, 
His  murdering  legions  and  half-famish'd  fleets  ; 
To  the  Jerseys  sneak'd  oflP,  with  fear  quite  dismay'd. 
Although  they  much  boasted,  that  fighting's  their  tra^e. 

Our  just  rights  to  assert,  hath  the  Congress  oft  tried. 
Whose  wisdom  and  strength  our  opponents  deride. 
And  still  madly  in  rage  their  weak  thunders  are  hurl'd, 
To  bring  us  on  our  knees  and  to  bully  the  world. 

Too  haughty  to  yield,  yet  too  weak  to  withstand, 
They  skulk  to  their  ships  and  leave  us  the  firm  land ; 
In  dread  lest  they  share  what  Jack  Burgoyne  did  feel, 
And  the  game  be  quite  lost,  as  poor  Jack  had  lost  deal. 

Jack,  thinking  of  cribbage,  all  fours,  or  of  put, 
With  a  dexterous  hand,  he  did  shufile  and  cut. 
And  when  likely  to  lose — like  a  sharper  they  say — 
Did  attempt  to  renege — I  mean,  run  away. 


THE    GAMESTER.  193 

But  watch'd  so  closely,  he  could  not  play  booty, 
Yet  to  cheat  he  fain  would,  for  George — 'twas  his  duty ; 
A  great  bet  depending  on  that  single  game ; 
Dominion  and  honor — destruction  and  shame. 

Examin'd  with  care  his  most  critical  hand, 

At  a  loss,  if  better  to  beg  or  to  stand, 

His  tricks  reckon'd  up ;  for  all  sharpers  can  jangle ; 

Then  kick'd  up  a  dust,  for  his  favorite  wrangle. 

'Twas  diamond  cut  diamond,  spades  were  of  no  use, 
But  to  dig  up  the  way  for  surrender  and  truce ; 
For  he  dreaded  the  hand  that  dealt  out  such  thumps ; 
As  the  hearts  were  run  out,  and  clubs  were  then  trumps. 

Thus  he  met  with  the  rubbers,  as  the  game  it  turn'd  out, 
Poor  Jack,  although  beat,  made  a  damnable  rout, 
Complain'd  he  was  cheated,^  and  pompously  talks; 
Quit  the  game  with  a  curse,   while  he  rubb'd  out  the 
chalks. 

But  see  a  cloud  burst,  and  a  seraph  appears. 

Loud  trumpeting  peace,  while  in  blood  to  their  ears, 

With  bulls  and  with  pardons  for  us  on  submission ; 

To  bull  us,  and  gull  us,  by  their  sham  commission. 
9 


194  THE    GAMESTER. 

The  haughty  great  George  then  to  peace  is  now  prone ; 
A  bully  when  matched  soon  can  alter  his  tone  ; 
'Tis  the  act  of  a  Briton  to  bluster  and  threaten ; 
Hangs  his  tail  like  a  spaniel,  when  handsomely  beaten. 

Charge  your  glasses  lip  high,  to  brave  "Washington  sing, 
To  the  union  so  glorious  the  whole  world  shall  ring ; 
May  their  councils  in  wisdom  and  valor  unite, 
And  the  men*  ne'er  be  wrong,  who  yet  so  far  are  right. 

The  great  Doctor  Franklin  the  next  glass  must  claim, 

Whose  electrical  rod  strikes  terror  and  shame ; 

Like    MoseS;    who    caused    Pharaoh's   heart-strings   to 

grumble, 
Shock'd  George  on  his  throne,  his  magicians  made  humble. 

To  Gates  and  to  Arnold,  with  bumpers  we'll  join, 

And  to  all  our  brave  troops  who  took  gambling  Burgoyne. 

May  their  luck  still  increase,  as  they've  turn'd  up  one 

Jack, 
To  cut  and  turn  up  all  the  knaves  in  the  pack.^ 

^  Complained  he  was  cheated,  and  pompously  tallcs.  "  Though  the 
articles  of  convention  -were  fully  adjusted,  signed  and  exchanged,  hy 
those  appointed  for  the  purpose,  and  the  hour  stipulated  by  the  par- 


THE    GAMESTER.  195 

ties  for  Burgojaie  to  a!lRx  his  signature,  he  addressed  a  note  to  Gene- 
ral Gates,  purporting  that  he  should  recede  from  the  treaty,  on  the 
ground  that  a  part  of  the  American  force  had  been  detached  from 
the  army  during  the  negotiation ;  and  with  a  bold  effrontery, 
required,  that  he  might  be  permitted  to  send  two  officers  to  the 
American  camp  to  ascertain  the  fact.  This  dishonorable  conduct 
raised  the  ire  of  General  Gates,  who  sent  Lieutenant-colonel  Wil- 
kinson to  insist  that  hostilities  would  recommence  if  the  treaty  was 
not  immediately  ratified.     This  produced  the  desired  effect." 

ThacJmr's  Journal. 

"^  And  the  men.  The  Continental  Congress,  in  all  their  acts,  were 
unanimously  supported  by  the  patriots. 

°  To  cut  and  turn  up  all  the  knaves  in  the  pack.  The  Earl  of  Dart- 
mouth asked  an  American  in  London,  of  how  many  members  the 
Congress  consisted  .?  To  which  the  reply  was  "  fifty-two."  "  Why, 
that  is  the  number  of  cards  in  a  pack,"  said  his  lordship,  "  pray 
how  many  knaves  are  there  ?"  "  Not  one,"  returned  the  republican, 
"  please  to  recollect  that  knaves  are  court  cards." 


1778. 

Capt.  Smyth,  the  author  of  this  bold  and  loyal  song,  was  an  officer 
in  Simcoe's  Queen's  Rangers.  Many  of  his  compositions  were  pub- 
lished during  the  war.  The  present  one  first  appeared  in  the  Penn- 
sylvania Ledger,  as  "a  new  song,  to  the  old  tune  of  Black  Joke," 
and  subsequently  in  a  ballad  sheet,  imder  its  present  title. 

THE   REBELS. 

Ye  brave,  honest  subjects,  who  dare  to  be  loyal, 
And  have  stood  the  brunt  of  every  trial. 

Of  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns  : 
Come  listen  awhile,  and  I'll  sing  you  a  song ; 
I'll  show  you,  those  Yankees  are  all  in  the  wrong, 
Who,  with  blustering  look  and  most  awkward  gait, 
'Gainst  their  lawful  sovereign  dare  for  to  prate. 

With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 


THE    REBELS.  197 

The  arch-rebels,  barefooted  tatterdemalions, 
In  baseness  exceed  all  other  rebellions, 

With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 
To  rend  the  empire,  the  most  infamous  lies. 
Their  mock-patriot  Congress,  do  always  devise ; 
Independence,  like  the  first  of  rebels,  they  claim, 
But  their  plots  will  be  damn'd  in  the  annals  of  fame, 

With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 

Forgetting  the  mercies  of  G-reat  Britain's  king, 
Who  saved  their  forefathers'  necks  from  the  string ; 

With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 
They  renounce  allegiance  and  take  up  their  arms, 
Assemble  together  like  hornets  in  swarms. 
So  dirty  their  backs,  and  so  wretched  their  show, 
That  carrion-crow  follows  wherever  they  go. 

With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 

With  loud  peals  of  laughter,  your  sides,  sirs,  would  crack. 
To  see  General  Convict  and  Colonel  Shoe-black, 

With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 
See  cobblers  and  quacks,  rebel  priests  and  the  like, 
Pettifoggers  and  barbers,  with  sword  and  with  pike, 


198  THE    REBELS. 

All  strutting,  the  standard  of  Satan  beside, 
And  honest  names  using,  their  black  deeds  to  hide. 
With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 

This  perjured  banditti,  now  ruin  this  land. 
And  o'er  its  poor  people  claim  lawless  command, 

With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 
Their  pasteboard  dollars,  prove  a  common  curse, 
They  don't  chink  like  silver  and  gold  in  our  purse ; 
With  nothing  their  leaders  have  paid  their  debts  off, 
Their  honor's,  dishonor,  and  justice  they  scoff, 

With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 

,  For  one  lawful  ruler,  many  tyrants  we'^e  got, 
I  Who  force  young  and  old  to  their  wars,  to  be  shot, 
With  their  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 
Our  good  king,  Grod  speed  him !  never  used  men  so. 
We  then  could  speak,  act,  and  like  freemen  could  go ; 
But  committees  enslave  us,  our  Liberty's  gone. 
Our  trade  and  church  murder'd ;  our  country's  undone. 
By  hunting-shirts,  and  rifle-guns. 

Come  take  up  your  glasses,  each  true  loyal  heart. 
And  may  every  rebel  meet  his  due  desert. 
With  his  hunting-shirt,  and  rifle-gun. 


THE    REBELS.  199 

May  Congress,  Conventions,  those  damn'd  inquisitions, 
Be  fed  with  hot  sulphur,  from  Lucifer's  kitchens, 
May  commerce  and  peace  again  be  restored. 
And  Americans  own  their  true  sovereign  lord. 
Then  oblivion  to  shirts,  and  rifle-guns.^ 
Grod  save  the  King. 


'  Then  oblivion  to  skirls  and  rijk-guns.  The  ruiiforms  and  equip- 
ments of  the  Continental  soldiers  were  the  subject  of  much  contempt 
and  irony  on  the  part  of  the  loyalists.  The  companies  of  riflemen, 
from  the  western  mountains,  were  generally  dressed  in  hunting- 
shirts  and  trowsers,  of  fawn  color  or  brown,  adorned  with  a  fringe. 

'•  These  froui  the  cerulean  mountains  hurried  down ; 
******* 

Beneath  their  aim  the  hostile  leaders  fall, 

For  death  rides  swift  th'  unseen,  unerring  ball." 

Hwmphrey's  Washington. 


1778. 

This  satirical  song,  entitled,  "The  Halcyon  Days  of  Old  Eng- 
land, or  the  wisdom  of  administration  demonstrated  ;  adapted  to  the 
tnne  of  '  Ye  Medley  of  Mortals,' "  was  written  in  England,  and  pub- 
lished in  the  London  Evening  Post,  during  the  early  part  of  the  year 
seventeen  hundred  and  seventy-eight.  It  was  soon  copied  into  the 
papers  friendly  to  the  cause  cf  Liberty,  throughout  the  American 
colonies,  and  became  a  great  favorite,  both  in  the  camp,  and  by  the 
firesides  of  the  patriots. 

THE  HALCYON  DAYS  OF  OLD  ENGLAND.* 

Give  ear  to  my  song,  I'll  not  tell  you  a  story ; 
This  is  the  bright  era  of  Old  England's  glory  I 
And  though  some  may  think  us  in  pitiful  plight, 
I'll  swear  they're  mistaken,  for  matters  go  right ! 

Sing  tantararara,  wise  all,  wise  all, 

Sing  tantararara,  wise  all. 


OLD    ENGLAND.  201 

Let  US  laugh  at  the  cavils  of  weak,  silly  elves  ! 
Our  statesmen  are  wise  men  !  they  say  so  themselves, 
And  tho'  little  mortals  may  hear  it  with  wonder, 
'Tis  consummate  wisdom,  that  causes  each  blunder ! 

They  are  now  engaged  in  a  glorious  war  ! 

It  began  about  tea,  about  feathers  and  tar  f 

With  spirit  they  push  what  they've  planned  with  sense ! 

Forty-millions  they've  spent,  for  a  tax  of  three  pence. 

The  debts  of  the  nation  do  grieve  them  so  sore, 
To  lighten  our  burden,  they  load  us  the  more ! 
They  aim  at  th'  American's  cash,  my  dear  honey ! 
Yet  beggar  this  kingdom,  and  send  them  the  money. 

What  honors  we're  gaining  by  taking  their  forts. 
Destroying  bateaux,  and  blocking  up  ports  ! 
Burgoyne  would  have  work'd  'em  but  for  a  mishap. 
By  Gates  and  one  Arnold,  he's  caught  in  a  trap ! 

But  Howe  was  more  cautious  and  prudent  by  far. 
He  sail'd  with  his  fleet  up  the  great  Delaware ; 
All  summer  he  struggled  and  strove  to  undo  'em, 
But  the  plague  of  it  was,  he  could  not  get  to  them. 
9* 


202  OLD    ENGfLAND. 

Oh  1  think  us  not  cruel,  because  our  allies 

Are  savagely  scalping  men,  women  and  boys  ! 

Maternal  affection  to  this  step  doth  move  us ! 

The  more  they  are  scalped,  the  more  they  will  love  us  I 

Some  folks  are  uneasy,  and  make  a  great  pother 

For  the  loss  of  one  army,  and  half  of  another ; 

But,  sirs,  next  campaign  by  ten  thousands  we'll  slay  'em, 

If  we  can  find  soldiers,  and  money  to  pay  'em. 

I've  sung  you  a  song,  now  I'll  give  you  a  prayer ; 
May  peace  soon  succeed  to  this  horrible  war  ! 
Again  may  we  live  with  our  brethren  in  concord, 
And  the  authors  of  mischief  all  hang  on  a  strong  cord. 

Sing  tantararara,  wise  all,  wise  all, 

Sing  tantararara,  wise  all. 

'  The  Halcyon  days  of  Old  England.  This  ballad  has  been  attribu- 
ted to  Arthur  Lee,  who,  at  the  time  of  its  appearance  in  England, 
was  in  France. 

^  About  feathers  and  tar.  The  discipline  of  tar  and  feathers,  that 
the  American  troops  inflicted  upon  such  disaffected  persons  as  made 
themselves  obnoxious  to  the  cause  of  liberty,  was  somewhat  new  to 
the  royal  mind,  and  in  England  was  looked  upon  as  a  most  "  bar- 
barous feature  in  warfare."  It  was  generally  applied  to  the  obstinate 
and  refractory  loyalists,  for  some  petty  remark  or  unpatriotic  demon- 
Btration.     The   riflemen  from  the  southern  colonies  were  celebrated 


OLD    ENGLAND.  203 


for  this  peculiar  discipline,  and  the  faintest  vestige  of  toryism,  was 
sufficient  to  warrant  its  application,  to  any  one  who  should  happen  to 
fall  in  their  way.  A  body  of  these  men  were  passing  through  one  of 
the  quiet  villages  in  Connecticut,  on  their  march  to  join  Washington's 
army,  when  they  met  a  notorious  loyalist,  who,  among  other  "  fine 
names  called  them  damned  rebels  and  sons  of  sedition."  They  soon 
took  him  and  compelled  him  to  walk,  in  advance  of  the  company, 
to  a  wood  near  the  town  of  Litchfield,  a  distance  of  over  twenty 
miles,  carrying  one  of  his  own  geese  all  the  way  in  his  hands.  On 
their  arrival  there,  they  applied  the  tar,  and  made  him  pluck  the 
goose,  after  which  they  bestowed  the  feathers  on  him,  drummed  him 
out  of  the  company,  and  obliged  him  to  kneel  and  thank  them  for 
their  lenity.  Another  instance  was  the  case  of  a  loyal  shoemaker 
of  New  York,  who  having  "  expressed  a  desire  in  public  company, 
and  in  the  most  insolent  manner"  that  General  Gage,  then  in  Boston, 
would  visit  that  town,  to  cut  the  throats  of  the  "  rebellious  whigs, 
and  bum  their  houses,  declaring  he  would  himself  assist  in  it,"  was 
immediately  taken  by  the  people  and  carried  to  the  wharf,  where  he 
was  stripped,  and  nicely  fitted  with  a  suit  of  "  American  thickset 
with  white  trimmings,"  and  after  gi"v^Bg  him  three  rounds  of  ap- 
plause, he  was  permitted  to  retire,  "  which  he  did  -sAdth  some  precipi- 
tation," at  the  same  time  muttering  ten  thousand  anathemas  against 
General  Gage,  as  the  author  of  his  disgrace. 


iritis^  f  igM  |nfetitrB. 


17  7  8. 

This  song  was  published  in  the  Royal  Gazette,  at  New  York, 
with  the  accompanying  remarks  :  "  Observing  in  a  late  paper  a  song 
written  for  the  British  Light  Infantry/  introduced  with  a  hint  that 
they  had  not  hitherto  received  their  merited  tribute  from  the  muses, 
I  take  the  liberty  of  making  them  the  tender  of  a  second  musical 
offering,  which,  though  never  yet  published,  has  been  frequently 
sung  and  re-echoed,  in  loyal  companies,  for  many  months  past  in 
this  city ;  nor  will  the  offering,  perhaps,  be  the  less  welcome,  for  be- 
ing presented  in  a  plain,  unornamented  dress,  and  by  the  hand  of 
a  loyal  American  refugee."  The  song  was  adapted  to  the  tune, 
"  Black  Sloven." 

BRITISH  LIGHT  INFANTRY. 

For  battle  prepared  in  their  country's  just  cause, 
Their  king  to  avenge  and  support  all  his  laws ; 
As  fierce  as  a  tiger,  as  swift  as  the  roe. 
The  British  Light  Infantry  rush  on  their  foe. 


BRITISH    LIGHT    INFANTRY.  205 

Though  rebels  unnumber'd  oppose  their  career, 

Their  hearts  are  undaunted ;  they're  strangers  to  fear ; 

No  obstacles  hinder ;  resistless  they  go, 

And  death  and  destruction  attend  every  blow. 

*  Cross  the  deep-gullied  vale,  up  the  mountain's  steep  side, 
Through  the  rough  foaming  river's  impetuous  tide, 
O'er  the  fortified  redoubt,  close  wedged  in  array. 
Regardless  of  safety  they  follow  their  prey. 

The  alarm  of  the  drum  and  the  cannon's  loud  roar ; 
The  musket's  quick  flash,  but  inflames  them  the  more. 
No  dangers  appal,  for  they  fear  no  control, 
But  glory  and  conquest  inspires  every  soul. 

"Whenever  their  foe  stands  arrang'd  in  their  sight. 
With  ardor  impatient  they  pant  for  the  fight ; 
Rout,  havoc,  confusion  they  spread  through  the  field, 
And  rebellion  and  treason  are  forced  to  yield. 

^  British  Light  Infantry.     The  song  mentioned  here  was  published 
in  a  Philadelphia  paper,  but  is  unfit  for  present  publicatioa 


1778. 

The  American  women,  during  the  revolution,  excelled  their  na- 
ture. Europe  heard,  with  wonder  and  regret,  of  their  constancy 
and  devotion  to  the  cause  of  liberty ;  and  their  spirit  and  firmness 
has  been  the  theme  of  many  excellent  lyrics,  both  in  this  country, 
and  the  old  world.  We  have  several  French  ballads,  commemorat- 
ing their  patriotism. 

PUBLIC  SPIRIT  OF  THE  WOMEN. 

Though  age  at  my  elbow  has  takeu  bis  stand, 

And  Time  has  stretched  o'er  me  his  wrinkling  hand ; 

Our  patriot  fair  like  a  charm  can  inspire, 

In  three-score-and-ten,  twenty's  spirit  and  fire. 


THE  OLD  man's  SONG.  207 

Boy,  fill  me  a  bumper !  as  long  as  I  live, 
The  patriot  fair  for  my  toast  must  I  give ; 
Here's  a  health  to  the  sex  of  every  degree, 
Where  sweetness  and  beauty  with  firmness  agree. 

No  more  will  I  babble  of  times  that  are  past, 
My  wish  is,  the  present  for  ever  may  last ; 
Already  I  see  sulky  George  in  despair, 
Should  he  vanquish  the  men,  to  vanquish  the  fair/ 

Of  Greeks  and  of  Romans  enough  has  been  said, 
To  Codrus  and  Brutus  full  tribute  been  paid ; 
O'er  musty  old  heroes  no  longer  I'll  dream, 
Living  beauty  and  virtue  enliven  my  theme. 

Could  time  be  roll'd  backward,  and  age  become  young. 
My  heart  swell  with  ardor,  my  arm  be  new  strung ; 
Under  Washington's  banner  I'd  cheerfully  fight. 
Where  the  smiles  of  the  fair  with  glory  unite. 

Fill  a  bumper  again  boy,  and  let  it  go  round. 
For  the  waters  of  youth  in  claret  are  found ; 
The  younkers  shall  know,  I've  the  courage  to  dare 
Drink  as  deep  as  the  best  to  the  patriot  fair. 


208 


*  To  vanquish  the  fair.  '•  If  they  had  not  been  rebels,"  said  Burke, 
"  I  could  have  been  lavish  in  praising  women,  who,  reduced  by  the 
ruin  of  civO.  discord  to  the  most  honid  situations  of  distress  and 
poverty,  had  generosity  and  public  spirit  to  strip  the  blankets,  in 
the  freezing  season,  from  themselves  and  their  infants,  to  send  to 
the  camp,  and  preserve  that  army  which  had  gone  out  to  fight  for 
their  liberty.  And  shall  Britons  overlook  such  virtue,  and  will  they 
persist  in  oppressing  it  ?  Shall  we  give  them  no  alternative  but  un- 
conditional submission  ?  A  three  years'  war  has  not  terrified  them, 
distressed  as  they  are,  from  their  gi-eat  purpose.  Let  us  try  the  power 
of  lenity  over  those  generous  bosoms." 

The  following  verses  are  taken  from  a  manuscript  diary,  kept 
during  the  revolution,  now  in  possession  of  the  editor. 

"  God  bless  our  gentle  mothers,  dear, 
"Who  cheer  xis  on  our  way  ! 
God  bless  our  loving  sisters,  dear, 
Who  with  them  at  home  stay. 

We'll  fight  for  them,  and  die  for  them, 

To  keep  them  from  Tory  ! 
We'll  raise  our  hearts  in  prayer  for  them. 

Wherever  we  may  be." 


iattk  0f  tilt  %\q$. 


177 


Early  in  Jannary,  1778,  David  Bushnell,  the  inventor  of  the 
American  Torpedo,  and  other  submarine  machinery,  prepared  a 
number  of  "  infemals,"  as  the  British  termed  them,  and  set  them 
afloat  in  the  Delaware  River,  a  few  miles  above  Philadelphia,  in  or- 
der to  annoy  the  royal  shipping,  which  at  that  time  lay  off  that 
place.  These  machines  were  constructed  of  kegs,  charged  with  pow- 
der, and  so  arranged  as  to  explode  on  coming  in  contact  with  any 
thing  while  floating  along  with  the  tide.  On  their  appearance,  the 
British  seamen  and  troops  became  alarmed,  and,  manning  the  ship- 
ping and  wharves,  discharged  their  small  arms  and  cannon  at  every 
thing  they  could  see  floating  in  the  river  during  the  ebb  tide.  Upon 
this  incident  the  following  song  was  composed  by  Francis  Hopkin- 
son,  one  of  the  happiest  writers  of  his  time.  It  soon  became  popu- 
lar with  "Washington's  army,  ant]  is  mentioned  by  Surgeon  Thacher 


210  BATTLE    OF    THE    KEGS. 

as  follows :  "  Our  drums  and  fifes  afforded  us  a  favorite  music  tilj 
evening,  when  we  were  delighted  with  the  song  composed  by  Mr. 
Hopkinson,  '  The  Battle  of  the  Kegs,'  sung  in  the  best  style  by  a 
number  of  gentlemen." 

BATTLE  OF  THE  KEGS. 

Gallants  attend,  and  hear  a  friend, 

Trill  forth  harmonious  ditty, 
Strange  things  I'll  tell,  which  late  befell, 

In  Philadelphia  city. 

'Twas  early  day,  as  poets  say, 

Just  when  the  sun  was  rising, 
A  soldier  stood,  on  a  log  of  wood, 

And  saw  a  thing  surprising. 

As  in  amaze  he  stood  to  gaze, 

The  truth  can't  be  denied,  sir. 
He  spied  a  score  of  kegs  or  more,^ 

Come  floating  down  the  tide  sir. 

A  sailor,  too,  in  jerkin  blue. 

This  strange  appearance  viewing, 

First  damn'd  his  eyes,  in  great  surprise. 
Then  said,  "  some  mischief's  brewing. 


BATTLE    OF    THE    KEGS.  211 

"  These  kegs,  I'm  told,  the  rebels  hold. 

Packed  up  like  pickled  herring, 
And  they're  come  down,  t'  attack  the  town, 

In  this  new  way  of  ferrying." 

The  soldier  flew,  the  sailor  too. 

And  scared  almost  to  death,  sir, 

"Wore  out  their  shoes  to  spread  the  news, 
And  ran  till  out  of  breath,  sir. 

Now  up  and  down,  throughout  the  town, 

Most  frantic  scenes  were  acted  ; 
And  some  ran  here,  and  others  there. 

Like  men  almost  distracted. 

Some  fire  cried,  which  some  denied, 

But  said  the  earth  had  quaked ; 
And  girls  and  boys,  with  hideous  noise, 

Ran  through  the  streets  half  naked. 

Sir  William, 2  he,  snug  as  a  flea, 

Lay  all  this  time  a  snoring ; 
Nor  dreamed  of  harm,  as  he  lay  warm. 

In  bed  with .' 


212  BATTLE    OF    THE   KEGS. 

Now  in  a  fright,  he  starts  upright, 

Awak'd  by  such  a  clatter  ; 
He  rubs  his  eyes,  and  boldly  cries, 

"  For  God's  sake,  what's  the  matter  ?  " 

At  his  bedside,  he  then  espied. 
Sir  Erskine  at  command,  sir,* 

Upon  one  foot  he  had  one  boot, 
And  t'other  in  his  hand,  sir. 

"  Arise  !  arise.  Sir  Erskine  cries, 
The  rebels — more's  the  pity — 

"Without  a  boat,  are  all  afloat, 
And  rang'd  before  the  city. 

"  The  motley  crew,  in  vessels  new, 
With  Satan  for  their  guide,  sir. 

Packed  up  in  bags,  or  wooden  kegs. 
Come  driving  down  the  tide,  sir. 

'  "  Therefore  prepare  for  bloody  war ; 
These  kegs  must  all  be  routed. 
Or  surely  we  despis'd  shall  be. 

And  British  courage  doubted." 


BATTLE    OF    THE   KEGS.  213 

The  royal  band,  now  ready  stand, 

All  ranged  in  dread  array,  sir, 
With  stomachs  stout,  to  see  it  out. 

And  make  a  bloody  day,  sir. 

The  cannons  roar  from  shore  to  shore, 

The  small  arms  make  a  rattle ; 
Since  wars  began,  I'm  sure  no  man 

Ere  saw  so  strange  a  battle. 

The  rebel  dales,  the  rebel  vales, 

With  rebel  trees  surrounded, 
The  distant  woods,  the  hills  and  floods. 

With  rebel  echoes  sounded. 

The  fish  below  swam  to  and  fro, 

Attack' d  from  every  quarter ; 
Why  sure,  thought  they,  the  devil's  to  pay, 

'Mongst  folks  above  the  water. 

The  kegs,  'tis  said,  though  strongly  made 

Of  rebel  staves  and  hoops,^  sir. 
Could  not  oppose  their  powerful  foes. 

The  conquering  British  troops,  sir. 


214  BATTLE    OF    THE    KEGS. 

From  morn  till  night,  these  men  of  might 
Display'd  amazing  courage ; 

And  when  the  sun  was  fairly  down, 
Retir'd  to  sup  their  porridge. 

An  hundred  men,  with  each  a  pen, 
Or  more,  upon  my  word,  sir. 

It  is  most  true  would  be  too  few. 
Their  valor  to  record,  sir. 

Such  feats  did  they  perform  that  day, 
Against  those  wicked  kegs,  sir, 

That  years  to  come,  if  they  get  home, 

They'll  make  their  boasts  and  brags,  sir. 


*  He  spied  a  score  of  kegs  or  more.  The  following  prose  accounts 
of  this  affair  were  published  in  the  Pennsylvania  Ledger,  a  loyal 
print,  "  The  to^vm  of  Philadelphia,  not  being  as  fully  acquainted 
with  the  subject  of  the  following  letter  taken  from  a  Burlington  pa- 
per, as  the  ingenious  author  would  have  his  readers  believe  them  to 
be,  it  may  be  necessary  to  relate  them  the  fact.  At  the  time  it 
happened,  it  was  so  trifling  as  not  to  be  thought  worthy  of  notice  in 
this  paper,  and  we  do  not  doubt  but  our  readers  wiU  allow  this  let- 
ter-writer full  credit  for  the  fertility  of  his  invention.  The  case  was 
that  on  the  fifth  of  January  last  (1778),  a  barrel  of  an  odd  appear- 
ance came  floating  down  the  Delaware,  opposite  the  town,  and  at- 
tracted the  attention  of  some  boys,  who  went  in  pursuit  of  it,  and 
had  scarcely  got   possession  of  it,  when  it  blew  up,  and  either  killed 


BATTLE    OF    THE    KEGS.  215 

or  injured  one  or  more  of  them.  So  far  the  matter  was  serious,  and 
the  fellow  who  invented  the  mischief  may  quit  his  conscience  of  the 
murder  or  injury  done  the  lads,  as  well  as  he  can.  Some  days  after 
a  few  others  of  much  the  same  appearance,  and  some  in  the  form  of 
buoys,  came  floating  in  like  manner,  and  a  few  guns  were,  we  be- 
lieve, fired  at  them  from  some  of  the  transports  lying  along  the 
wharves.  Other  than  this  no  notice  was  taken  of  them,  except,  in- 
deed, by  our  author,  whose  imagination,  perhaps  as  fertile  as  his 
iu-sention,  realized  to  himself  in  the  frenzy  of  his  enthusiasm  the 
matters  he  has  set  forth."  "  Extract  of  a  letter  from  Philadelphia, 
Jan.  9,  1778. — The  city  has  been  lately  entertained  with  a  most 
astonishing  instance  of  the  activity,  bravery,  and  military  skill  of 
the  royal  navy  of  Great  Britain.  The  aflfair  is  somewhat  particular 
and  deserves  your  notice.  Some  time  last  week,  two  boys  observed 
a  keg  of  singular  construction,  floating  in  the  river  opposite  to  the 
city.  They  got  into  a  small  boat,  and  in  attempting  to  obtain  the 
keg,  it  burst  with  a  great  explosion,  and  blew  up  the  unfortunate 
boys.  On  Monday  last,  several  kegs  of  a  like  construction  made 
their  appearance.  An  alarm  was  immediately  spread  through  the 
city.  Various  reports  prevailed,  filling  the  city  and  royal  troops 
■vvith  consternation.  Some  reported  that  these  kegs  weie  tilled  with 
armed  rebels,  who  were  to  issue  forth  in  the  dead  of  the  night,  as 
did  the  Grecians  of  ojd  from  their  wooden  horse  at  the  siege  of 
Troy,  and  take  the  city  by  surprise,  asserting  that  they  had  seen  the 
points  of  their  bayonets  through  the  bung-holes  of  the  kegs.  Others 
said  they  were  charged  with  the  most  inveterate  combustibles,  to  be 
kindled  by  secret  machinery,  and  setting  the  whole  Delaware  in 
flames,  were  to  consume  all  the  shipping  in  the  harbor  ;  whilst  others 
asserted  they  were  constructed  by  art  magic,  would,  of  themselves, 
ascend  the  wharves  in  the  night-time,  and  roll  all  flaming  through 
the  streets  of  the  city,  destroying  every  thing  in  their  way.  Be  this 
as  it  may,  certain  it  is  that  the  shipping  in  the  harbor,  and  all  the 
wharves  in  the  city,  were  fully  manned.  The  battle  began,  and  it 
was  surprising  to  behold  the  incessant  blaze  that  was  kept  up 
against  the  enemy,  the  kegs.     Both  officers  and  men  exhibited  the 


216  BATTLE    OF    THE    KEGS. 


most  unparalleled  skill  and  bravery  on  tlie  occasion,  whilst  the  citi- 
zens stood  gazing  as  solemn  witnesses  of  their  prowess.  From  the 
Roebuck,  and  other  ships  of  war,  whole  broadsides  were  poured  into 
the  Delaware.  In  short,  not  a  wandering  chip,  stick,  or  drift  log, 
but  felt  the  vigor  of  the  British  arms.  The  action  began  |ibout  sim- 
rise,  and  would  have  been  completed  with  great  success  by  noon, 
had  not  an  old  market-woman,  coming  down  the  river  with  provis- 
ions, unforttinately  let  a  small  keg  of  butter  fall  overboard,  which, 
as  it  was  then  ebb  tide,  floated  down  to  the  scene  of  action.  At  the 
sight  of  this  unexpected  reinforcement  of  the  enemy,  the  battle  was 
renewed  with  fresh  fury,  and  the  firing  was  incessant  till  evening 
closed  the  affair.  The  kegs  were  either  totally  demolished,  or  obliged 
to  fly,  as  none  of  them  have  shown  their  heads  since.  It  is  said  that 
his  Excellency  Lord  Howe  has  despatched  a  swift-saiUng  packet, 
with  an  accoimt  of  this  victory,  to  the  court  at  London.  In  a  word, 
Monday,  the  fifth  of  January,  seventeen  hundred  and  seventy-eight, 
must  ever  be  distinguished  in  history  for  the  memorable  battle  of 
the  kegs." 

^  Sir  William  he,  snvg  as  a  flea.  Sir  Wilham  Howe  commanded 
the  British  army,  which  entered  Philadelphia  on  the  27th  of  Sep- 
tember, 1777. 

^  In  bed  vnth .     The  wife  of  Joshua  Loring,  a  refugee 

from  Boston,  made  commissary  of  prisoners  by  General  Howe. 
*'  The  consummate  cruelties  practised  on  the  American  prisoners 
under  his  administration,  almost  exceed  the  ordinary  powers  of  hu- 
man invention.  The  conduct  of  the  Turks,  in  putting  all  prisoners 
to  death,  is  certainly  much  more  rational  and  humane  than  that  of 
the  British  army  for  the  first  three  years  of  the  American  war,  or 
till  after  the  capture  of  Burgoyne." 

*  Sir  ErsUne  at  command.  Sir  William  Erskine,  a  General  in  the 
British  army.  He  attended  the  expedition  against  Danbury,  Con- 
necticut, in  1777. 

^  Of  rebel  staves  and  hoops.  David  Bushnell  was  a  native  of  Say- 
brook,  Connecticut.  The  particulars  of  his  early  Hfe  are  unknown. 
Early  in  the  autumn  of  1776,  he  submitted  to  General  Washington 


BATTLE    OF    THE    KEGS.  217 


a  machine  Lnvented  by  himself,  for  the  destructioB  of  the  British 
shipping  then  at  anchor  in  the  New  York  harbor.  The  following 
description  of  the  machine,  and  accomits  of  the  experiments  tried 
with  it,  are  taken  from  the  journal  of  Surgeon  Thacher,  "  The  in- 
ternal appearance  of  the  torpedo,  bears  some  resemblance  to  two 
upper  tortoise  shells,  of  equal  size,  placed  in  contact,  leaving  at  that 
part  which  represents  the  head  of  the  animal,  a  flue  or  opening,  suf- 
ticientlv  capacious  to  contain  the  operator,  and  air  to  support  him 
thirty  minutes.  At  the  bottom  is  placed  a  quantity  of  lead  for  bal- 
last. The  operator  sits  upright,  and  holds  an  oar  for  rowing  forward 
or  backward,  and  is  furnished  with  a  rudder.  A  valve  at  the  bot- 
tom admits  the  water  for  the  purpose  of  descending,  and  two  brass 
forcing  pumps  serve  to  eject  the  water,  when  necessary  for  ascend- 
ing. Attached  to  the  after  part  of  tliis  vessel  is  a  place  above  the 
rudder  for  carrying  a  large  powder  magazine.  This  is  made  of  two 
hollow  pieces  of  oak  timber,  large  enough  to  contain  one  hundred 
and  fifty  pounds  of  powder,  and  is  secured  to  the  object  intended  to 
be  destroyed  by  a  screw  turned  by  the  operator.  Within  this  maga- 
zine is  an  apparatus,  constructed  to  run  any  proposed  length  of  time 
under  twelve  hours.  On  running  out,  it  unpinions  a  lock,  which 
gives  the  fire  to  the  powder.  This  apparatus  is  set  in  motion  by 
casting  ofi'the  magazine  from  the  operative  vessel." 

BushneU  was  encouraged  in  his  plan,  and  Major-General  Put- 
nam, being  decidedly  of  the  opinion  that  his  operations  might  be 
attended  with  the  desired  success,  resolved  to  be  himself  a  spectator 
of  the  experiment.  It  was  determined  to  make  an  attempt  on  the 
ship  Eagle,  on  which  Admiral  Lord  Howe  commanded.  "  General 
Putnam  placed  himseK  on  the  wharf  to  witness  the  result.  Mr. 
Bushnell  had  instructed  his  brother  in  the  management  of  the  tor- 
pedo ^^^th  perfect  dexterity,  but,  being  taken  sick,  a  sergeant  *  of 

*  This  was  Sergeant  Ezra  Lee,  afterwards  a  Captain  in  the  Continental  ser- 
vice. He  ever  had  the  confidence  and  esteem  of  Wa-shington,  and  fought  Avith 
bim  at  Trenton  and  Monmouth.  At  Brandy  wine  the  hilt  of  his  sword  was 
Bhot  away,  and  his  hat  and  coat  pierced  with  the  enemy's  balls.  On  the  return 
of  peace,  he  retired  to  his  farm,  and  tilled  the  land  until  a  short  time  before  hia 

10 


218  BATTLE    OF    THE    KEGS. 


a  Counecticut  regiment  was  selected  for  the  business.  Having  sucb 
instructions  as  time  -would  allow,  late  at  night,  he  went  under  thf 
ship,  and  attempted  to  fix  the  wooden  screw  uato  her  bottom,  bul 
struck  a  bar  of  iron,  which  passes  from  the  rudder-hinge,  and  is 
spiked  under  the  ship's  quarter.  Had  he  moved  a  few  inches,  there 
is  no  doubt  he  would  have  found  wood  where  he  might  have  fixed 
the  screw,  but  not  being  well  skilled  in  the  management  of  the  ves- 
sel, in  attempting  to  move  to  another  place,  he  lost  the  sliip.  After 
seeking  her  in  vain  some  time,  he  rowed  off,  and  rose  to  the  surface 
of  the  water,  but  found  daylight  had  advanced  so  far,  tbat  he  dare 
not  renew  the  attempt.  In  his  return  from  the  sbip  to  New  York, 
he  passed  near  Governor's  Island,  and  thought  he  was  discovered 
by  the  enemy.  Being  in  haste  to  avoid  the  danger  he  feared,  he 
cast  off  the  magazine,  as  he  thought  it  retarded  his  progress,  and  in 
a  short  time  it  blew  up  with  great  ^"iolence,  leaving  the  enemy  to 
conjecture  whether  the  stupendous  noise  was  produced  by  a  bomb, 
a  meteor,  a  Avater-spout,  or  an  earthquake.  Several  other  attempts 
were  made  in  Hudson's  River,  but  no  one  succeeded." 

"  In  the  year  1777,  Mr.  Bushnell  made  an  attempt  from  a  whale 
boat  against  the  Cerberus  frigate,  by  drawing  a  machine  against  her 
side  by  means  of  a  line.  This  machine  was  different  from  the  tor- 
pedo. It  was  constructed  with  wheels,  furnished  with  irons,  sbai*p- 
ened  at  the  end  and  projecting  about  an  inch,  in  order  to  sti'ike  the 
sides  of  the  vessel  when  hauling  it  up,  thereby  setting  the  wheels  in 
motion,  which  in  five  minutes  caused  the  explosion.  Commodore 
Simmons,  "being  on  board  the  Cerberus,  wrote  an  oflScial  letter  to 
Sir  Peter  Parker,  describing  the  disaster  occasioned  by  Bushnell's 
attempt  on  his  ship.  '  Being  at  anchor  to  the  westward  of  New 
London  with  a  schooner  he  had  taken,  discovered  about  eleven 
o'clock  at  night,  a  line  towing  astern  from  the  bows.  He  believed 
that  some  person  had  veered  away  by  it,  and  immediately  began  to 
haul  in.  A  sailor  belonging  to  the  schooner,  taking  it  for  a  fishing- 
death.  He  died  at  Lyme.  Connecticut,  on  the  twenty-ninth  of  November, 
1821,  aged  T2. 


BATTLE    OF    THE    KEGS, 


219 


line,  laid  hold  of  it,  and  drew  in  about  fifteen  fathoms.  At  the  end 
of  the  rope  a  machine  was  fastened,  too  heavy  for  one  man  to  pull 
np,  and  other  persons  of  the  schooner  coming  to  his  assistance,  drew 
it  on  deck.  While  they  were  examining  it,  it  exploded,  blew  the 
vessel  to  pieces,  and  set  her  on  fire.  Three  men  were  killed,  and  a 
fourth  blown  into  the  water.  On  examining  round  the  ship  after  this 
occurrence,  another  line  was  discovered,  which  Commodore  Sim- 
mons ordered  to  be  instantly  cut  away,  for  fear  of  hauHng  up  another 
of  the  infernal s.' " 


%\t  ^5il0pt 


1778. 

The  ministerial  press  in  America  embraced  every  opportunity  to 
ridicule  the  motives  of  the  most  prominent  patriots  of  the  Revolu- 
tion, and  very  often  exceeded  the  bounds  of  truth,  or  even  probability 
in  their  assertions.  The  following  remarks  and  stanzas  were  pub- 
lished in  a  ballad  sheet,  and  posted  ia  the  streets  of  New  York  and 
Philadelphia,  dui-ing  the  month  of  October  1778,  and  on  the  twenty- 
fourth  of  the  same  month  they  appeared  in  the  Royal  Gazette. 
"  There  was  lately  exhibited  in  the  city  of  Philadelphia,  an  admira- 
ble farce  called  Independence.  Who  the  author  was  is  not  positively 
known,  but  some  are  of  the  opinion  that  it  is  the  work  of  a  certain 
quack  doctor  called  Franklin.  Others  assert  that  it  is  the  joint  pro- 
duction of  the  strolling  company  by  whom  it  was  acted ;  it  is,  how- 
ever, generally  allowed,  that  one  Adams  gave  the  first  hint,  contrived 
the  plot  and  cast  the  parts.  It  appeared  in  the  exhibition  so  tragi- 
comical, that  the  audience  were  at  a  loss  whether  to  laugh  or  cry. 
They  were,  however,  well  pleased  with  the  catastrophe,  and  joined 
heartily  in  the  following  chorus.     As  the  renowned  Voltaire  some- 


THE    EPILOGUE.  221 

where  relates,  that  a  song  was  the  cause  of  the  French  reformation, 
the  excellent  actor  who  performed  the  part  of  the  President  took  upon 
himself  the  plain  song."  The  whole  production  has  been  attributed 
to  James  Rivington,  "  the  lying  hector  of  the  Royal  Gazette,"  but 
the  only  evidence  we  have  to  sustain  this  supposition,  is  that  it  was 
published  in  his  paper,  which  is  certainly  very  slight. 


THE  EPILOGUE.^ 

Our  farce  is  now  finisli'd,  your  sport's  at  an  end, 
But  ere  you  depart,  let  the  voice  of  a  friend 
By  way  of  a  chorus,  the  evening  crown 
With  a  song  to  the  tune  of  a  hey  derry  down, 

Derry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 

Old  Shakspeare,  a  poet,  who  should  not  be  spit  on, 
Altho'  he  was  born  in  the  island  called  Britain, 
Hath  said  that  mankind  are  all  players  at  best, 
A  truth  we'll  admit  of,  for  sake  of  the  jest. 

On  this  puny  stage  we've  strutted  our  hour. 
And  have  acted  our  parts  to  the  best  of  our  power ; 
That  the  farce  hath  concluded  not  perfectly  well, 
Was  surely  the  fault  of  the  devil  in  hell. 


222-  THE    EPILOGUE. 

This  devil,  you  know,  out  of  spleen  to  the  church, 
Will  oftentimes  leave  his  best  friends  in  the  lurch, 
And  turn  them  adrift  in  the  midst  of  their  joy; 
'Tis  a  difficult  matter  to  cheat  the  Old  Boy. 

Since  this  is  the  case,  we  must  e'en  make  the  best 
Of  a  game  that  is  lost ;  let  us  turn  it  to  jest ; 
We'll  smile,  nay,  we'll  laugh,  we'll  carouse  and  we'll  ?ing, 
And  cheerfully  drink  life  and  health  to  the  king. 

Let  Washington  now  from  his  mountains  descend, 
Who  knows  but  in  George  he  may  still  find  a  friend ; 
A  Briton,  altho'  he  loves  bottle  and  wench, 
Is  an  honester  fellow  than  parle  vous  French. 

Our  great  Independence  we  give  to  the  wind, 

And  pray  that  Great  Britain  may  once  more  be  kind. 

In  this  jovial  song  all  hostility  ends, 

And  Britons  and  we  will  for  ever  be  friends. 

Boys  fill  me  a  bumper  !  now  join  in  the  chorus  ! 
There  is  happiness  still  in  the  prospect  before  us. 
In  this  sparkling  glass,  all  hostility  ends, 
And  Britons  and  we  will  for  ever  be  friends. 


THE    EPILOGUE.  223 

Good  night !  my  good  people,  retire  to  your  houses, 
Fair  ladies,  I  beg  you,  convince  your  dear  spouses 
That  Britons  and  we  are  united  in  bliss, 
And  ratify  all  with  a  conjugal  kiss. 

Once  more,  here's  a  health  to  the  king  and  queen ! 
Confusion  to  him,  who  in  rancor  and  spleen, 
Refuses  to  drink  with  an  English  friend. 
Immutable  amity  to  the  world's  end. 


^  The  Epilogue.  At  tlie  time  the  foregoing  was  written,  the 
British  held  possession  of  Philadelphia,  and  the  Congress  held  its 
sessions  at  Yorktown,  in  Virginia.  After  the  evacuation  of  the  city 
by  Howe's  army,  June  18,  1778,  the  Congress  resumed  its  sittings 
there. 


®0  Maslriitgt0n, 

FROM    THE    BRITISH    LIGHT    INFANTRY. 

1778. 

Great  "Washington,  thou  mighty  son  of  Mars, 
Thou  thund'ring  hero  of  the  rebel  wars ! 
Accept  our  thanks  for  all  thy  favors  past ; 
Our  special  thanks  await  thee  for  the  last. 

Thy  proclamation,  timely  to  command 
The  cattle  to  be  fatten'd  round  the  land. 
Bespeaks  thy  generosity,  and  shows 
A  charity  that  reaches  to  thy  foes  ! 

And  was  this  order  issued  for  our  sakes, 

To  treat  us  with  roast  beef  and  savory  steaks  ? 

Or  was  it  for  thy  rebel  train  intended  ? 

Give  'em  the  hides,  and  let  their  shoes  be  mended ; 


TO    WASHINGTON.  225 

The'  shoes  are  what  they  seldom  wear  of  late ; 
'Twould  load  their  nimble  feet  with  too  much  weight ! 
And  for  the  beef — there  needs  no  puflfs  about  it ; 
In  short,  they  must  content  themselves  without  it. 

We,  to  reward  you  for  your  care  and  pains. 
Will  visit  soon  your  crowded  stalls  and  plains ; 
And  for  your  pamper'd  cattle  write,  at  large. 
With  bloody  bayonets,  a  full  discharge. 

We  know  that  we  light  bobs  are  tough  and  hardy, 
And  at  a  push  you'll  never  find  us  tardy, 
We  have  a  stomach  both  for  beef  and  battle  ; 
So,  honest  whigs,  once  more,  feed  well  your  cattle. 

Obey  your  chief's  command,  and  then,  'tis  plain. 
We  cannot  want  for  beef  the  next  campaign  ! 
And  if  we  want  for  fighting,  be  it  known. 
The  fault,  good  neighbors,  shall  be  your  own  ! 


10^ 


^Mx  0f  f  0n0r, 


177 


The  author  of  this  humorous  ballad  is  unknown.  It  was  written 
at  Charleston,  South  Carolina,  a  short  time  after  the  event  it  com- 
memorates, and  published  in  the  ministerial  issues  and  broadsides, 
as  "  an  authentic  account  of  the  affair  of  honor  between  General 
llobert  Howe  ^  and  Lieutenant-Governor  Christopher  Gadsden,''  and 
too  good  a  story  to  be  told  in  simple  prose." 

AFFAIR  OF  HONOR. 

It  was  on  Mr.  Percy's  land, 

At  squire  Rugeley's  corner, 
G-reat  H.  and  G.  met  sword  in  hand, 

Upon  a  point  of  honor. 


AFFAIR    OF    HONOR.  227 

G.  went  before  with  Colonel  E., 

Together  in  a  carriage ; 
On  horseback  followed  H.  and  P., 

As  if  to  steal  a  marriage. 

On  chosen  ground  they  now  alight, 

For  battle  diily  harness'd, 
A  shady  place  and  out  of  sight, 

It  show'd  they  were  in  earnest. 

They  met,  and  in  the  usual  way 

With  hat  in  hand  saluted, 
Which  was,  no  doubt,  to  show  how  they 

Like  gentlemen  disputed. 

And  then  they  both  together  made 

This  honest  declaration, 
That  they  came  there,  by  honor  led, 

But  not  by  inclination. 

That  if  they  fought  'twas  not  because 

Of  rancor,  spite  or  passion, 
But  only  to  obey  the  laws 

Of  custom  and  the  fashion. 


228  AFFAIR    OF    HOXOR. 

The  pistols  then,  before  their  eyes. 
Were  fairly  prim'd  and  loaded  ! 

H.  wished,  and  so  did  Gr.  likewise, 
The  custom  was  exploded  ! 

But  as  they  now  had  gone  so  far 
In  such  a  bloody  business, 

For  action  straight  they  both  prepare 
With — mutual  forgiveness. 

But  lest  their  courage  should  exceed 
The  bounds  of  moderation. 

Between  the  seconds  'twas  agreed 
To  fix  them  each  a  station. 

The  distance  stepp'd  by  Colonel  P.' 
Was  only  eight  short  paces ; 
"  Now,  gentlemen,"  says  Colonel  E.,* 
"  Be  sure  to  keep  your  places." 

Quoth  H.  to  G-. — "  Sir,  please  to  fire  !  " 
Quoth  Gr. — "  No,  pray  begin,  sir ;  " 

And  truly  one  must  needs  admire 
The  temper  they  were  in,  sir. 


AFFAIPv    OF    HONOR. 

"  We'll  fire  both  at  once,"  said  he, 
And  so  they  both  presented ; 
No  answer  was  returned  by  G., 
But  silence,  sir,  consented. 

They  paus'd  awhile,  these  gallant  foes, 

By  turns  politely  grinning, 
Till  after  many  cons  and  pros, 

H.  made  a  brisk  beginning. 

He  missed  his  mark,  but  not  his  aim. 
The  shot  was  well  directed ; 

It  sav'd  them  both  from  hurt  and  shame, 
What  more  could  be  expected  ? 

Then  Gr.  to  show  he  meant  no  harm, 

But  hated  jars  and  jangles. 
His  pistol  fired  across  his  arm, 

From  H.  almost  at  angles. 

H.  now  was  called  upon  by  Gr., 

To  fire  another  shot,  sir ; 
He  smiled,  and  "  After  this,"  quoth  he, 
"  No,  truly,  I  cannot,  sir." 


229 


230  AFFAIR    OF    HONOR. 

Such  honor  did  they  both  display, 
They  highly  were  commended  ; 

And  thus  in  short,  this  gallant  fray 
Without  mischance  was  ended. 

No  fresh  dispute,  we  may  suppose, 

Will  e'er  by  them  be  started, 
For  now  the  chiefs,  ^o  longer  foes. 

Shook  hands,  and  so  they  parted. 

^  General  Robert  Howe  was  born  at  Brunswick,  North  Carolina, 
in  1734.  The  exact  date  of  his  birth  is  unknown.  He  was  one  of 
the  earliest  and  boldest  patriots  of  the  South.  For  his  gallantry 
during  the  earlv  part  of  the  Revolution,  Congress  appointed  him  a 
Brigadier- General,  and  ordered  him  to  Virginia.  In  1778  he  was 
assigned  to  the  command  of  the  southern  troops.  After  the  unsuc- 
cessful expedition  against  Florida,  and  the  defeat  at  Savannah,  his 
conduct  was  severely,  though  unjustly,  censured.  Among  others, 
Gadsden  declaimed  against  him,  and  refusing  to  retract,  a  duel 
ensued,  in  which  the  only  injury  done  was  a  slight  scratch  made 
upon  Gadsden's  cheek  by  the  ball  from  Howe's  weapon. 

^  Christopher  Gadsden  was  a  native  of  Charleston,  South  Caro- 
lina, where  he  was  born  in  1724.  He  was  a  member  of  the  Con- 
gress of  1765,  and  also  of  that  which  met  in  1774.  After  the  capit- 
ulation of  Charleston,  1 780,  Gadsden  was  sent  to  St.  Augustine,  by 
order  of  Cornwallis,  and  there  confined  in  the  castle  nearly  a  year. 
In  later  life  he  was  chosen  Lieutenant-Governor,  and  in  1782  elected 
Governor,  but  declined  on  account  of  his  age.     He  died  in  1805. 

^  Colonel  P.,  afterwards  General  Charles  Cotesworth  Pinckne^', 
was  Howe's  second  in  this  affair. 

*  Colonel  E.     Bernard  Elliot  was  Gadsden's  second. 


TO    RHODE    ISLAND. 

1778. 

This  humorous  ballad  commemorates  the  attempt  made  upon 
Rhode  Island,  hy  the  combined  forces  of  Count  D'Estaing,  with  the 
French  fleet,  and  General  Sullivan,  in  command  of  the  American 
forces,  during  the  month  of  August,  1778- 

EXPEDITION  TO  RHODE  ISLAND. 

From  Lewis,  Monsieur  Gerard  came/ 
To  Congress  in  this  town,  sir, 

They  bow'd  to  him,  and  he  to  them, 
And  then  they  all  sat  down,  sir. 


232  EXPEDITION    TO    RHODE    ISLAND. 

Begar,  said  Monsieur,  one  grand  coup, 
You  shall  bientot  behold,  sir ; 

This  was  believ'd  as  gospel  true. 
And  Jonathan  felt  bold,  sir. 

So  Yankee  Doodle  did  forget 

The  sound  of  British  drum,  sir, 

How  oft  it  made  him  quake  and  sweat, 
In  spite  of  Yankee  rum,  sir. 

He  took  his  wallet  on  his  back, 
His  rifle  on  his  shoulder. 

And  veow'd  Rhode  Island  to  attack, 
Before  he  was  much  older. 

In  dread  array  their  tatter'd  crew, 
Advanc'd  with  colors  spread,  sir. 

Their  fifes  played  Yankee  doodle,  doo, 
King  Hancock  at  their  head,  sir." 

What  numbers  bravely  cross'd  the  seas, 
I  cannot  well  determine, 

A  swarm  of  rebels  and  of  fleas, 
And  every  other  vermin. 


n 


EXPEDITION    TO    RHODE    ISLAND.  233 

Their  mighty  hearts  might  shrink  they  tho't, 

For  all  flesh  only  grass  is, 
A  plenteous  store  they  therefore  brought, 

Of  whiskey  and  molasses. 

They  swore  they'd  make  bold  Pigot  squeak,^ 

So  did  their  good  ally,  sir, 
And  take  him  pris'ner  in  a  week, 

But  that  was  all  my  eye,  sir. 

As  Jonathan  so  much  desir'd 

To  shine  in  martial  story, 
D'Estaing  with  politesse  retir'd,* 

To  leave  him  all  the  glory. 

He  left  him  what  was  better  yet. 

At  least  it  was  more  use,  sir, 
He  left  him  for  a  quick  retreat, 

A  very  good  excuse,  sir. 

To  stay,  unless  he  rul'd  the  sea. 

He  thought  would  not  be  right,  sir, 

And  Continental  troops,  said  he. 

On  islands  should  not  fight,  sir. 


234  EXPEDITION    TO    KHODE    ISLAND. 

Another  cause  with  these  combin'd, 
To  throw  him  in  the  dumps,  sir, 

For  Clinton's  name  alarmed  his  mind," 
And  made  him  stir  his  stumps,  sir. 

^  Monsieur  Gerard  came.  M.  Gerard  was  the  first  ambassador  from 
any  nation  to  the  United  States.  The  following  minnte  account  of 
his  reception  by  the  Continental  Congress,  at  Philadelphia,  appeared 
in  the  papers  of  that  period.  "  On  Thursday,  the  sixth  of  Au- 
gust, 1778,  the  day  appointed  hj  the  Congress  for  the  reception  of 
the  minister,  Richard  Henry  Lee,  delegate  from  Virginia,  and 
Samuel  Adams,  delegate  from  Massachusetts  Bay,  waited  upon  his 
Excellency,  in  a  coach  and  six,  provided  by  Congress,  at  his  house. 
In  a  few  minutes,  the  minister  and  the  two  delegates  entered  the 
coach,  Mr.  Lee  placing  liimself  at  the  minister's  left  hand  on  the 
back  seat ;  Mr.  Adams  occupying  the  front  seat.  The  minister's 
chariot  being  behind  received  his  secretary.  On  the  arrival  of  the 
carriages  at  the  State  House,  the  two  members  of  Congress,  placing 
themselves  at  the  minister's  left  hand,  a  little  before  one  o'clock,  in- 
troduced him  to  his  chair  in  the  Congress  Chamber;  the  President 
and  Congress  sitting.  The  chair  was  placed  fronting  the  President. 
The  minister  being  seated,  he  gave  his  credentials  into  the  hands  of 
his  secretary,  who  advanced  and  deUvered  them  to  the  President. 
The  secretary  of  Congress  then  read  and  translated  them,  after 
which  Mr.  Lee  announced  the  minister  to  the  President  and  Con- 
gress. At  this  time,  the  President,  the  Congress,  and  the  minister 
rose  together.  He  bowed  to  the  President  and  Congress,  and  they 
bowed  to  him,  whereupon  the  whole  seated  themselves.  In  a  mo- 
ment, the  minister  rose  and  made  a  speech  to  the  Congi-ess,  they 
sitting.  The  speech  being  finished,  the  minister  sat  down,  and  giv- 
ing a  copy  of  his  speech  to  his  secretary,  he  presented  it  to  the 
President.  The  President  and  Congress  then  rose,  and  the  Presi- 
dent pronounced  the   answer  to  the  speech,  the  minister  standing. 


EXPEDITION    TO    RHODE    ISLAND.  236 


The  answer  being  ended,  the  whole  were  agam  seated,  and  the 
President  giving  a  copy  of  the  answer  to  the  secretary  of  Congress, 
he  presented  it  to  the  minister,  The  President,  the  Congress,  and 
the  minister  then  rose  together.  The  minister  bowed  to  the  Presi- 
dent, who  returned  the  salute,  and  then  to  the  Congress,  who  also 
bowed  in  return.  And  the  minister  having  again  bowed  to  the 
President,  and  received  his  bow,  he  withdrew,  and  was  attended 
home  in  the  same  manner  in  which  he  had  been  conducted  to  the 
audience." 

"  Thus  has  a  new  and  noble  sight  been  exhibited  in  this  new 
world.  The  Representatives  of  the  United  States  of  America, 
solemnly  giving  public  audience  to  a  minister  plenipotentiary  from 
the  most  powerful  prince  in  Europe.  Four  years  ago,  such  an 
event,  at  so  near  a  day,  was  not  in  the  view  even  of  imagination. 
But  it  is  the  Almighty  who  raiseth  up.  He  hath  stationed  America 
among  the  powers  of  the  earth,  and  clothed  her  in  robes  of  sove- 
reignty." 

Kivington,  in  the  Royal  Gazette  of  the  eleventh  of  November, 
1778,  says  :  "  A  correspondent  observes,  that  after  all  the  pageantry 
and  parade  exhibited  last  summer  at  Philadelphia,  with  Monsieur 
Gerard,  he  is  assured  by  recent  accounts  from  thence,  that,  instend 
of  au  ambassador  from  the  court  of  Versailles,  he  proves  in  reality 
nothing  more  than  an  agent  from  the  Fermiers  Generaux  for  the  col- 
lection of  an  immense  heavy  debt,  due  to  them  from  the  rebel 
chiefs."  Rivington  concludes  with  the  remark  that  Gerard  is  "a 
driver,  a  mere  tobacco-droger  he" 

-  Kinr/  Hancock  at  their  head.  John  Hancock  took  the  command 
of  the  second  Hue  of  Massachusetts  militia,  in  this  movement.  The 
advance  of  the  American  army  was  commanded  by  Colonel  Living- 
ston, the  right  wing  by  General  Greene,  and  the  left  by  the  INIarquis 
de  la  Fayette. 

^  Bold  Pigot.  Sir  Robert  Pigot  commanded  the  British  forces  in 
Rhode  Island. 

*  D'Estaing  with  politesse  retired.  Count  D'Estaing  was  censured 
very  severely  for  the  conduct  of  the  French  fleet  in  this  expedition. 


236  EXPEDITION    TO    RHODE   ISLAND. 


On  the  day  after  he  aiTived  at  Newport,  Lord  Howe,  ■with  the  Brit- 
ish fleet,  came  in  sight.  D'Estaing  went  out  to  meet  him,  and  after 
a  sharp  conflict,  with  some  injury  to  the  shipping  of  both  sides,  they 
separated.  The  British  fleet  went  to  Xew  York,  and  the  French 
returned  to  Newport.  D'Estaing  thought  it  necessary  to  go  to 
Boston  vnth.  his  fleet  to  repair,  and  two  days  after  set  saU,  notwith- 
standing the  earnest  protestations  of  the  officers  of  the  American 
land  forces,  who  had  been  dispatched  from  the  main  army  to  assist 
in  the  expedition.  Under  these  circumstances,  the  militia,  who  had 
volunteered  with  great  eagerness  to  co-operate  with  theii-  new  allies, 
went  home  disgusted  and  disheartened,  and  General  Sullivan  ordered 
a  retreat.     So  the  expedition  failed. 

^  ClintovbS  name  alarmed  his  mind.  Sir  Henry  Clinton  did  not 
arrive  in  the  neighborhood  of  Rhode  Island  until  some  time  aft€r 
D'Estaing  had  left  it. 

This  song  was  -oTitten  in  Philadelphia,  but  the  author  is  un- 
known. Rivington  published  it  in  the  Royal  Gazette,  at  New  York, 
on  the  third  of  October,  1778,  without  comment.  It  also  appeared 
in  the  English  newspapers,  during  the  early  part  of  the  year  fol- 
lowing. 


1778. 

Rivington  first  published  this  production,  in  the  Royal  Gazette, 
as  "  A  fable  addressed  to  the  Americans,  upon  their  treaty  with 
France."  It  afterwards  appeared  as  "  A  fable,  in  the  way  of  a  song, 
for  the  rebels,"  over  the  signature  of  D.  M.*  The  last  version  dif_ 
fers  slightly  from  the  original 

A  FAELE. 

Rejoice,  Americans,  rejoice ! 
Praise  ye  the  Lord  with  heart  and  voice ! 
The  treaty's  signed  with  faithful  France, 
And  now,  like  Frenchmen,  sing  and  dance  ! 

But  when  your  joy  gives  way  to  reason, 
And  friendly  hints  are  not  deem'd  treason, 
Let  me,  as  well  as  I  am  able, 
Present  your  Congress  with  a  fable. 


238  A    FABLE. 

Tired  out  with  happiness,  the  frogs 
Sedition  croak'd  through  all  their  bogs ; 
And  thus  to  Jove  the  restless  race, 
Made  out  their  melancholy  case. 

"  Fam'd,  as  we  are,  for  faith  and  prayer, 
We  merit  sure  peculiar  care ; 
But  can  we  think  great  good  was  meant  us, 
When  logs  for  Grovernors  were  sent  us  ? 

"  Which  numbers  crush'd  they  fell  upon, 
And  caus'd  great  fear, — till  one  by  one, 
As  courage  came,  we  boldly  fac'd  'em, 
Then  leap'd  upon  'em,  and  disgrac'd  'em  ! 

"  Great  Jove,"  they  croak'd,  "no  longer  fool  us, 
None  but  ourselves  are  fit  to  rule  us ; 
We  are  too  large,  too  free  a  nation, 
To  be  encumber'd  with  taxation ! 

''  We  pray  for  peace,  but  wish  confusion. 
Then  right  or  wrong,  a — revolution  ! 
Our  hearts  can  never  bend  t'  obey ; 
Therefore  no  king — and  more  we'll  pray." 


239 


Jove  smiled,  and  to  their  fate  resign'd 
The  restless,  thankless,  rebel  kind ; 
Left  to  themselves,  they  went  to  work, 
First  signed  a  treaty  with  king  Stork. 

He  swore  that  they,  with  his  alliance, 
To  all  the  world  might  bid  defiance ; 
Of  lawful  rule  there  was  an  end  on't. 
And  frogs  were  henceforth — independent. 

At  which  the  croakers,  one  and  all, 
Proclaim'd  a  feast,  and  festival ! 
But  joy  to-day  brings  grief  to-morrow  ; 
Their  feasting  o'er,  now  enter  sorrow  ! 

The  Stork  grew  hungry,  long'd  for  fish ; 
The  monarch  could  not  have  his  wish ; 
In  rage  he  to  the  marshes  flies. 
And  makes  a  meal  of  his  allies. 

Then  grew  so  fond  of  well-fed  frogs. 
He  made  a  larder  of  the  bogs  ! 
Say,  Yankees,  don't  you  feel  compunction, 
At  your  unnatural,  rash  conjunction  ? 


240  A    FABLE. 

Can  love  for  jou  in  him  take  root, 

Who's  Catholic,  and  absolute  ? 

I'll  tell  these  croakers  how  he'll  treat  'em ; 

Frenchmen,  like  storks,  love  frogs — to  eat  'em. 

^  D.  M.  It  has  been  suggested  that  David  Matthews,  Mayor  of 
the  city  of  New  York,  during  the  Revolution,  was  the  writer  of  this 
song.     D.  M.  is  the  only  proof  we  have  that  such  is  the  case. 


€\pUx. 

1778. 

William  Billings,  the  author  of  the  subjoined  hymn,  was  bom  in 
Boston,  Massachusetts,  on  the  seventh  of  October,  1746.  He  is 
more  celebrated,  as  the  earliest  native  writer  of  music  in  America, 
than  by  his  verses.  He  was  zealous  in  the  cause  of  liberty,  and  the 
patriotic  ardor  which  pervaded  his  works,  made  them  very  popular 
with  the  colonists.  The  New  England  soldiers,  who,  during  the 
war,  were  stationed  in  the  Southern  States,  had  many  of  his  tunes 
by  heart,  and  amused  themselves  by  singing  them  in  camp,  to  the 
delight  of  all  who  heard  them. 

A  HYMN. 

Let  tyrants  shake  their  iron  rod, 

And  slavery  clank  her  galling  chains  ; 

We  fear  them  not ;  we  trust  in  God — 

New  England's  God  for  ever  reigns. 
11 


242  A    HYMN. 

Howe  and  Burgoyne,  and  Clinton,  too, 
With  Prescott  and  Cornwallis  join'd  • 

Together  plot  our  overthrow, 
In  one  infernal  league  combin'd. 

When  Grod  inspir'd  ns  for  the  fight, 

Their  ranks  were  broke,  their  lines  were  forc'd; 

Their  ships  were  shatter'd  in  our  sight, 
Or  swiftly  driven  from  our  coast. 

The  foe  comes  on  with  haughty  stride ; 

Our  troops  advance  with  martial  noise ; 
Their  veterans  flee  before  our  youth. 

And  generals  yield  to  beardless  boys. 

What  grateful  offering  shall  we  bring  ? 

What  shall  we  render  to  the  Lord  ? 
Loud  hallelujahs  let  us  sing, 

And  praise  his  name  on  every  chord. 


^  This  hymn  was  published  in  "  Billings'  Singing  Master's  As- 
sistant," a  collection  of  cliurcli  music  in  general  use  in  New  Eng- 
land, during  the  Revolution.  In  the  introduction  to  this  work,  Bil- 
lings says,  "  Dame  Gamut's  sons  have  a  strong  propensity  to  mirth 
and  cheerfulness,  always  delighting  to  frequent  weddings  and  con- 


A   HYMN.  243 


certs,  and  some  of  them  seem  to  be  greatly  pleased  in  warlike 
achievements,  and  though  they  carry  no  instruments  of  death  or 
destruction,  yet  tliey  are  so  extremely  animating*  that  they  can 
cause  even  cowards  to  fight,  and  pusillanimity  to  perform  wonders." 
The  music  and  words  of  another  piece  in  the  "  Singing  Master's 
Assistant,"  composed  by  Billings  was  entitled 

EETROSPECT. 

An  Anthem  from  sundry  scriptures. 

"  Was  uot  the  day,  was  not  the  day, 
Was  not  the  day  dark,  and  gloomy. 
The  enemy  said,  "  let  us  draw  a  line, 
Even  from  York  to  Canada." 

But  praised  be  the  Lord  I 

But  praised  be  the  Lord ! 
The  snare  is  broken,  and  we  are  escaped  I 

But  praised  be  the  Lord ! 

But  blessed  be  the  Lord  I 
The  snare  is  broken,  and  we  are  escaped  1 

Hark,  hark,  hear  the  adjuration. 
Cursed  be  the  man  that  keepeth  back  his  sword  I 

Oh  !  dismal !  oh !  horrible !  oh  I  dismal. 

My  bowels  !  my  bowels ! 

I  am  pained  at  my  very  heart ! 

My  heart  maketh  a  noise  within  me, 
For  thou  hast  heard,  oh  my  soul !  the  alarm  of  war." 

Billings  died  at  Boston,  September  26,  1800,  aged  fifty-four. 

*  By  this  is  understood  the  fife  and  di'um,  and  ether  martial  instraments  of 
mufiic.    Note  ly  i?ie  author  of  the  hymn. 


1778. 

" Lord  Nortli's  Recantation "  was  written  by  "a  gentlemen  of 
Chester,"  England,  and  first  appeared  in  the  London  Evening  Post. 
The  appendix  to  the  "  Political  Duenna"  contains  it,  as  do  many 
of  the  newspapers  published  in  1779, 

LORD  NORTH'S  RECANTATION. 

When  North  first  began, 

With  his  taxation  plan, 
The  Colonies  all  to  supplant ; 

To  Britain's  true  cause, 

And  her  liberty,  laws, 
O,  how  did  he  scorn  to  recant. 

Oh !  how  did  he  boast, 
Of  his  pow'r  and  his  host, 


245 


Alternately  swagger  and  cant ; 
Of  freedom  so  dear, 
Not  a  word  would  he  hear, 

Nor  believe  he'd  be  forc'd  to  recant. 

That  freedom  he  swore. 
They  ne'er  should  have  more, 

Their  money  to  give  and  to  grant ; 
Whene'er  they  address'd. 
What  disdain  he  express'd. 

Not  thinking  they'd  make  him  recant. 

He  armies  sent  o'er 

To  America's  shore, 
New  government  there  to  transplant ; 

But  every  campaign 

Prov'd  his  force  to  be  vain, 
Yet  still  he  refas'd  to  recant. 

But  with  all  their  bombast. 
They  were  so  beat  at  last. 

As  to  silence  his  impious  rant ; 
Who  for  want  of  success, 
Could  at  last  do  no  less, 

Than  draw  in  his  horns,  and  recant. 


246  LORD  north's  recantation. 

With  his  brother  Burgoyne, 
He's  forc'd  now  to  join, 

And  a  treaty  of  peace  for  to  want ; 
Says  he  ne'er  will  fight, 
But  will  give  up  his  right 

To  taxation,  and  freely  recant. 

With  the  great  General  Howe, 

He'd  be  very  glad  now, 
He  ne'er  had  engag'd  in  the  jaunt ; 

And  ev'ry  proud  Scot, 

In  the  devilish  plot, 
With  his  lordship,  are  forc'd  to  recant. 

Old  England  alas ! 

They  have  brought  to  such  pass, 
Too  late  are  proposals  extant ; 

America's  lost, 

Our  glory  at  most 
Is  only  that — tyrants  recant. 


1779. 

THE  OLD  YEAR  AND  THE  NEW. 

What  though  last  year  be  past  and  gone, 

Why  should  we  grieve  or  mourn  about  it  ? 
As  good  a  year  is  now  begun, 

And  better  too,  let  no  one  doubt  it. 

'Tis  New-Year's  morn ;  why  should  we  part ! 

Why  not  enjoy  what  heaven  has  sent  us? 
Let  wine  expand  the  social  heart, 

Let  friends,  and  mirth,  and  wine  content  us. 

War's  rude  alarms  disturb 'd  last  year  ; 

Our  country  bled  and  wept  around  us ; 
But  this  each  honest  heart  shall  cheer. 

And  peace  and  plenty  shall  surround  us. 


248  A    PROPHECY. 

Last  year  king  Congo,  through  the  land, 
Display'd  his  thirteen  stripes  to  fright  us ; 

But  George's  power,  in  Clinton's  hand, 
In  this  new  year  shall  surely  right  us. 

Last  year  saw  many  honest  men, 

Torn  from  each  dear  and  sweet  connection, 
But  this  shall  see  them  home  again, 

And  happy  in  their  king's  protection. 

Last  year  vain  Frenchmen  brav'd  our  coasts, 
And  baffled  Howe,  and  scap'd  from  Byron ; 

But  this  shall  bring  their  vanquish'd  hosts, 
To  crouch  beneath  the  British  Lion. 

Last  year  rebellion  proudly  stood, 

Elate,  in  her  meridian  glory  ; 
But  this  shall  quench  her  pride  in  blood ; 

George  will  avenge  each  martyr'd  tory. 

Then  bring  us  wine,  full  bumpers  bring  ; 

Hail  this  new  year  in  joyful  chorus; 
God  bless  great  George,  our  gracious  king, 

And  crush  rebellion  down  before  us. 


1779. 

These  verses  were  composed  by  Philip  Frenean,  a  native  of  the 
city  of  New  York.  He  was  born  on  the  second  of  January,  1752, 
and  died  December  18,  1832.  He  is  celebrated  as  the  most  popular 
poet  of  the  revolution.  The  greater  part  of  his  productions  do  not 
come  under  the  class  of  songs  or  ballads.  This  specunen  of  his 
writings  was  first  published  in  the  United  States  Magazine,  and  af- 
tenvards,  with  some  alterations  and  improvements,  to  suit  the  more 
mature  judgment  of  the  poet;  it  appeared  in  the  various  editions  of 
his  poems, 

GEORGE  THE  THIRD'S  SOLILOQUY. 

Oh  !  blast  this  Congress,  blast  each  upstart  State, 
On  whose  commands  ten  thousand  warriors  wait ; 
From  various  climes  that  dire  assembly  came. 
True  to  their  trust,  yet  hostile  to  my  fame. 
'Tis  these,  ah  !  these  have  ruin'd  half  my  sway, 
Disgrac'd  my  arms,  and  lead  my  realm  astray. 


250  A    SOLILOQUY. 

France  aids  them  now ;  I  play  a  desperate  game, 
And  sunburnt  Spain  they  say  will  do  the  same ; 
My  armies  vanquish 'd,  and  my  heroes  fled, 
My  people  murmuring,  and  my  commerce  dead. 
My  shatter'd  navy,  pelted,  bruis'd,  and  clubb'd, 
By  Dutchmen  bullied,  and  by  Frenchmen  drubb'd. 

My  name  abhorr'd,  my  nation  in  disgrace. 
What  should  I  do  in  such  a  mournful  case  ? 
My  hopes  and  joys  are  vanish'd,  with  my  coin, 
My  ruined  army,  and  my  lost  Burgoyne  ! 
What  shall  I  do,  confess  my  labors  vain, 
Or  whet  my  tusks,  and  to  the  charge  again  ? 

But  where's  my  force,  my  choicest  troops  are  fled, 
Some  thousands  crippled,  and  a  myriad  dead ; 
If  I  were  owned  the  stoutest  of  mankind, 
And  hell  with  all  her  rage  inspired  my  mind  ; 
Could  I  at  once  with  France  and  Spain  contend. 
And  fight  the  rebels  on  the  world's  green  end  ? 

Yet  rogues  and  savage  tribes  I  must  employ, 
And  what  I  cannot  conquer,  will  destroy. 


A    SOLILOQUY.  251 

Is  there  a  robber  close  in  Newgate  hemm'd  ? 
Is  there  a  cut-throat  fetter'd  and  condemn'd  ? 
Haste,  loyal  slaves,  to  George's  standard  come, 
Attend  his  lectures  when  you  hear  the  drum. 

Your  chains  I  break,  for  better  days  prepare, 
Come  out,  my  friends,  from  prison  and  from  care ; 
Far  to  the  west  I  plan  your  desperate  way. 
There,  'tis  no  sin,  to  ravage,  burn,  and  slay ; 
There,  without  fear,  your  bloody  trade  pursue, 
And  show  mankind  what  British  rage  can  do. 

Ye  daring  hosts  that  crowd  Columbia's  shore, 
Tremble,  ye  traitors  !  and  exult  no  more ; 
Flames  I  will  hurl  with  an  unceasing  hand. 
Till  fires  eternal  blaze  throughout  your  land ; 
And  every  dome  and  every  town  expires. 
And  traitors  perish  in  the  unfeeling  fires. 

But  hold — though  this  be  all  my  soul's  desire, 

Will  my  own  towns  be  proof  to  rebel  fire  ? 

If  in  revenge  my  raging  foes  should  come 

And  burn  my  London — it  would  strike  me  dumb 

To  see  my  children  and  my  queen  in  tears, 

And  these  tall  piles  come  tumbling  round  my  ears. 


252  A    SOLILOQUT. 

Curs'd  be  the  day  when  first  I  saw  the  sun, 
Curs'd  be  the  hour  when  I  this  war  begun ; 
The  fiends  of  darkness  then  inspired  my  mind, 
And  powers  unfriendly  to  the  human  kind ; 
My  future  years  I  consecrate  to  woe, 
For  this  great  loss  my  soul  in  tears  shall  flow. 

To  wasting  grief  aud  sullen  rage  a  prey, 
To  Scotland's  utmost  verge  I  take  my  way ; 
With  nature's  storms  eternal  concert  keep, 
And  while  her  billows  rage  as  fiercely  weep ; 
Oh  !  let  the  earth  my  rugged  fate  bemoan. 
And  give  at  least  one  sympathizing  groan. 


1779. 

These  verses  were  published  in  the  Royal  Gazette,  in  March, 
1779,  as  "A  Song,  written  by  a  refugee  on  reading  the  King's 
speech,  and  sung  at  the  Refugee  Club,  in  the  city  of  New  York, 
to  the  tune  "  Hearts  of  Oak." 

A    SONG. 

Here's  a  bumper,  brave  boys,  to  the  health  of  our  king, 
Long  may  he  live,  and  long  may  we  sing, 
In  praise  of  a  monarch  who  boldly  defends 
The  laws  of  the  realm,  and  the  cause  of  his  friends. 
Then  cheer  up,  my  lads,  we  have  nothing  to  fear, 
While  we  remain  steady, 
And  always  keep  ready, 
To  add  to  the  trophies  of  this  happy  year. 


254  A    SONG. 

The  Congress  did  boast  of  their  mighty  ally, 
But  George  does  both  France  and  the  Congress  defy ;  . 
And  when  Britons  unite,  there's  no  force  can  withstand 
Their  fleets  and  their  armies,  by  sea  and  on  land. 

Thus  supported,  our  cause  w^  will  ever  maintain. 
And  all  treaties  with  rebels  will  ever  disdain ; 
Till  redue'd  by  our  arms,  they  are  forc'd  to  confess. 
While  ruled  by  Great  Britain  they  ne'er  knew  distress. 

Then  let  us,  my  boys,  Britain's  right  e'er  defend, 
Who  regards  not  her  rights,  we  esteem  not  our  friend ; 
Then,  brave  boys,  we  both  France  and  the  Congress  defy, 
And  we'll  fight  for  Great  Britain  and  George  till  we  die. 
Then  cheer  up,  my  lads,  we  have  nothing  to  fear, 
While  we  remain  steady, 
And  always  keep  ready, 
To  add  to  the  trophies  of  this  happy  year. 


%\t  ^§nmt  Jigt 


1779. 

The  author  of  these  sprightly  verses  is  not  known.  In  the 
"  New  Hampshire  Gazette  "  they  appear,  with  the  following  note 
to  the  printer:  "By  inserting  this  in  your  next  paper,  you  will 
ohlige  one  of  your  country  subscribers."  We  do  not  know  of  their 
being  printed  elsewhere. 

THE  PRESENT  AGE. 

Of  all  the  ages  ever  known, 

The  present  is  the  oddest; 
For  all  the  men  are  honest  grown, 

And  all  the  women  modest. 

Nor  lawyers  now  are  fond  of  fees, 

Nor  clergy  of  their  dues ; 
No  idle  people  now  one  sees, 

At  church  no  empty  pews. 


256  A    SONG. 

No  courtiers  now  their  friends  deceive 
With  promises  of  favor  ; 

For  what  they  made  'em  once  believe, 
Is  done  and  done  for  ever. 

Our  nobles — Heaven  defend  us  all ! 

I'll  nothing  say  about  'em ; 
For  they  are  great  and  I'm  but  small, 

So  muse,  jog  on  without  'em. 

Our  gentry  are  a  virtuous  race, 
Despising  earthly  treasures ; 

Fond  of  true  honor's  noble  chase, 
And  quite  averse  to  pleasures. 

The  ladies  dress  so  plain  indeed, 
You'd  think  'em  Quakers  all, 

Witness  the  wool  packs  on  their  heads, 
So  comely  and  so  small. 

No  tradesman  now  forsakes  his  shop. 

For  politics  or  news  ; 
Or  takes  his  dealer  at  a  hop. 

Through  interested  views. 


A  SONG.  257 

No  soaking  sot  forsakes  his  spouse, 

For  mugs  of  mantling  nappy ; 
Nor  taverns  tempt  him  from  his  house, 

Where  all  are  pleas'd  and  happy. 

Our  frugal  taste  the  State  secures, 

Whence  then  can  woes  begin  ? 
For  luxury's  turn'd  out  of  doors, 

And  prudence  taken  in. 

From  hence  proceeds  th'  abundant  flow, 

Of  plenty  through  the  land ; 
Where  all  provisions  all  men  know, 

Are  cheap  on  ev'ry  hand. 

No  pleasure-chaises  fill  the  streets, 
Nor  crowd  the  roads  on  Sunday ; 

So  horses  ambling  thro'  the  week. 
Obtain  a  respite  one  day. 

All  gaming,  tricking,  swearing,  lying, 

Is  grown  quite  out  of  fashion  ; 
For  modern  youth's  so  self-denying, 

It  flies  all  lawless  passion. 


258  A    SONG. 

Happy  the  nation  thus  endowed ! 

So  void  of  wants  and  crimes ; 
Where  all  are  rich  and  none  are  proud, 

Oh  !  these  are  glorious  times. 

Your  characters  (with  wondering  stare 
Cries  Tom)  are  mighty  high,  sir ; 

But  pray  forgive  me,  if  I  swear, 
I  think  they're  all  a  lie,  sir. 

Ha !  think  you  so,  my  honest  clown  ? 

Then  take  another  light  on't; 
Just  turn  the  picture  upside  down, 

I  fear  you'll  see  the  right  on't. 


Sir  f ^rj  Clintoti's 

INVITATION  TO  THE  REFUGEES. 

1779. 

"  Sir  Harry's  Invitation "  was  written  by  Philip  Freneau.     We 
have  it  in  a  ballad  sheet,  dated  1779. 

THE  INVITATION. 

Come,  gentlemen  tories,  firm,  loyal,  and  true. 
Here  are  axes  and  shovels,  and  something  to  do ! 

For  the  sake  of  our  King, 

Come  labor  and  sing. 
You  left  all  you  had  for  his  honor  and  glory. 
And  he  will  remember  the  suffering  tory. 

We  have,  it  is  true. 

Some  small  work  to  do ; 


260  THE    INVITATION. 

But  here's  for  your  pay,  twelve  coppers  a  day, 
And  never  regard  what  the  rebels  may  say, 
But  throw  off  your  jerkins  and  labor  away. 

To  raise  up  the  rampart,  and  pile  up  the  wall, 
To  pull  down  old  houses,  and  dig  the  canal. 

To  build  and  destroy, 

Be  this  your  employ, 
In  the  day-time  to  work  at  our  fortifications. 
And  steal  in  the  night  from  the  rebels  your  rations. 

The  king  wants  your  aid, 

Not  empty  parade ; 
Advance  to  your  places,  ye  men  of  long  faces, 
Nor  ponder  too  much  on  your  former  disgraces. 
This  year,  I  presume,  will  quite  alter  your  cases. 

Attend  at  the  call  of  the  fifer  and  drummer. 

The  French  and  the  rebels  are  coming  next  summer, 

And  the  forts  we  must  build 

Though  tories  are  killed. 
Take  courage,  my  jockies,  and  work  for  your  king, 
For  if  you  are  taken,  no  doubt  you  will  swing. 

If  York  we  can  hold, 

I'll  have  you  enroll'd ; 


THE   INVITATION.  261 

And  after  you're  dead,  your  names  shall  be  read, 
As  who  for  their  monarch  both  labor'd  and  bled, 
And  ventur'd  their  necks  for  their  beef  and  their 
bread. 

'Tis  an  honor  to  serve  the  bravest  of  nations, 
And  be  left  to  be  hang'd  in  their  capitulations. 

Then  scour  up  your  mortars, 

And  stand  to  your  quarters, 
'Tis  nonsense  for  tories  in  battle  to  run. 
They  never  need  fear  sword,  halberd,  or  gun ; 

Their  hearts  should  not  fail  'em, 

No  balls  will  assail  'em ; 
Forget  your  disgraces,  and  shorten  your  faces. 
For  'tis  true  as  the  gospel,  believe  it  or  not. 
Who  are  born  to  be  hang'd,  will  never  be  shot. 


§,  i^to  laM. 


1779. 

This  loyal  song  appeared  originally  in  England.  Rivington 
published  it  in  the  Royal  Gazette,  in  November,  1779,  and  after- 
wards on  a  ballad  sheet,  with  the  choms,  "  Deny  Down." 

A  NEW  BALLAD. 

Rouse,  Britons  !  at  length, 

And  put  forth  your  strength, 
Perfidious  France  to  resist, 

Ten  Frenchmen  will  fly, 

To  shun  a  black  eye, 
If  an  Englishman  doubles  his  fist. 

Derry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 

But  if  they  feel  stout, 
Why  let  them  turn  out, 


A   NEW   BALLAD.  263 

With  their  maws  stuff 'd  with  frdgs,  soups,  and 
jellies ; 

Brave  Hardy's  sea  thunder, 
Shall  strike  them  with  wonder, 

And  make  the  frogs  leap  in  their  bellies  ! 

For  their  Dons  and  their  ships, 

We  care  not  three  skips 
Of  a  flea — and  their  threats  turn  into  jest,  0  1 

We'll  bang  their  bare  ribs, 

For  the  infamous  fibs, 
Cramm'd  into  their  fine  manifesto. 

Our  brethren  so  frantic, 

Across  the  Atlantic, 
Who  quit  their  old  friends  in  a  huff; 

In  spite  of  their  airs, 

Are  at  their  last  prayers, 
And  of  fighting  have  had  quantum  suff. 

Then  if  powers  at  a  distance, 
Should  offer  assistance, 


264  A    NEW    BALLAD. 

Say  boldly,  "  we  want  none,  we  thank  ye," 

Old  England's  a  match,^ 

And  more  for  old  scratch, 
A  Frenchman,  a  Spaniard,  a  Yankee  ! 

Derry  down,  down,  hey  derry  down. 

^  Old  Enffland's  a  match.     The  following  extempore   appeared,  a 
short  time  after  this  song  was  pubhshed,  in  America. 

Choctaws,  Chickasaws,  and  Catawbas, 

Are  all  engaged  to  fight  us ; 
Keep  off  you  Mynheers  with  your  yaws, 

And  England's  gun  shall  right  us. 

"We  don't  mind  Monsieur's  copper  laco, 

Nor  solemn  Don  in  cloak ; 
Once  let  us  meet  them  face  to  face, 

And  fighting  is  no  joke. 

Three  cheers  for  England's  weal  we  give. 

And  pour  the  broadside  It  ; 
The  wretch  that  is  not  fit  to  live, 

To  kill  cau  be  no  sin. 


®p  dtiprftL 


1779. 

There  are  various  versions  of  this  sarcastic  "EngHsh  hallad." 
The  subjoined  copy  differs  from  the  original,  first  published  in  the 
London  Magazine,  in  1778,  in  one  particular  only.^  The  writer  of 
it  is  unknown.  It  is  included  in  a  collection  of  poems,  and  fugitive 
pieces,  published  in  London  in  1779.  The  numerous  editions  of  it 
that  appeared  during  the  last  year  of  the  Revolution,  establish  the 
fact  of  its  popularity. 

THE  ETIQUETTE. 

What  though  America  doth  pour 
Her  millions  to  Britannia's  store, 
Quoth  Grenville,  that  won't  do — for  yet, 
Taxation  is  the  etiquette. 

The  tea  destroy'd,  the  offer  made 
That  all  the  loss  should  be  repaid — 
North  asks  not  justice,  nor  the  debt, 
But  he  must  have  the  etiquette. 
12 


266  THE    ETIQUETTE. 

He'd  stop  their  port — annul  their  laws — 
"  Hear  us,"  cried  Franklin,  "  for  our  cause  !  " 
To  hear  th'  accus'd,  the  senate  met, 
Decreed  'twas  not  the  etiquette. 

At  Bunker's  Hill  the  cause  was  tried, 
The  earth  with  British  blood  was  dyed ; 
Our  army,  though  'twas  soundly  beat, 
We  hear,  bore  o£f  the  etiquette. 

The  bond  dissolv'd,  the  people  rose, 
Their  rulers  from  themselves  they  chose ; 
Their  Congress  then  at  naught  was  set — 
Its  name  was  not  the  etiquette. 

Though  'twere  to  stop  the  tide  of  blood. 
Their  titles  must  not  be  allow'd, 
(Not  to  the  chiefs  of  armies  met,) 
One  Arnold  was  the  etiquette. 

The  Yankees  at  Long  Island  ^  found 
That  they  were  nearly  run  aground ; 
Howe  let  them  'scape  when  so  beset — 
He  will  explain  the  etiquette. 


THE    ETIQUETTE.  267 

His  aide- de-camps  to  Britain  boast 
Of  battles — Yankee  never  lost ; 
But  they  are  won  in  the  Gazette — 
That  saves  the  nation's  etiquette. 

Clinton  his  injur 'd  honor  saw, 
Swore  he'd  be  tried  by  martial  law, 
And  kick  Germaine  whene'er  they  met— 
A  ribbon  sav'd  that  etiquette. 

Though  records  speak  Germaine's  disgrace, 
To  quote  them  to  him  to  his  face, 
(The  Commons  now  are — si  honnete,) 
They  voted  not  the  etiquette. 

Of  Saratoga's  dreadful  plain — 
An  army  ruin'd ;  why  complain  ? 
To  pile  their  arms  as  they  were  let, 
Sure  they  came  off  with  etiquette  ! 

Cries  Burgoyne,  "They  may  be  reliev'd, 
That  army  still  may  be  retriev'd. 
To  see  the  king  if  I  be  let ;  " 
"No,  sir  !  'tis  not  the  etiquette." 


268  THE    ETIQUETTE. 

God  save  the  king  !  and  should  he  choose 
His  people's  confidence  to  lose, 
What  matters  it  ?  they'll  not  forget 
To  serve  him  still — through  etiquette. 

1776. 
*  In  the  original  publication  of  tMs  song,  the  first  is  a  five  line 
stanza,  having 

"  Though  risk  it  all,  and  nothing  get,'' 

after  the  third  line. 

^  The  Yankees  at  Long  Island.  Among  other  incidents  of  the 
retreat  of  the  Americans  from  Long  Island,  in  1776,  the  loyal  prints 
circulated  the  foUowdng:  "From  report,  we  hear  that  Mr.  Wash- 
ington and  his  dirty  rebel  outcasts,  got  a  good  soaking  the  other  day, 
in  their  flight  from  Long  Island.  They  were  so  vigorously  pursued, 
by  our  brave  feUows,  that  many  of  them  took  to  the  water  hke  dogs, 
and  swam  over  the  creek.  A  deserter,  lately  come  into  the  royal 
lines,  says  he  saw  nearly  all  the  rebel  army  drying  their  only  shirt 
and  trowsers  on  the  bushes,  meanwhile  performing  various  monkey 
tricks  and  other  rebel  discipline,  to  keep  warm  in  their  bufis.  He 
didn't  see  Mr.  Washington  in  this  new  rebel  armor,  so  we  suppose 
he  was  comfortably  situated  in  some  one  of  those  hay  lofts  he  has 
unjustly  pressed  from  the  friends  of  justice,  right,  and  a  loving  king." 


3u^t  0f  <^ataniia|* 


1779. 

Count  D'Estaing,  with  his  fleet  of  twenty  sail,  reached  the  coast 
of  Georgia  early  in  September,  1779.  Soon  after  his  arrival,  a  plan 
was  concerted  with  General  Lincoln,  to  make  a  combined  attack 
upon  Savannah.  Through  delay  and  mismanagement,  the  Ameri- 
cans and  their  allies  were  repulsed.  Numerous  severe  and  ironical 
ballads,  commemorating  the  event,  appeared  shortly  after,  from 
which  the  one  subjoined  is  selected. 

ABOUT    SAVANNAH. 

Come  let  us  rejoice, 

With  heart  and  with  voice, 
Her  triumphs  let  loyalty  show,  sir, 

While  bumpers  go  round. 

Re-echo  the  sound. 
Huzza  for  the  king  and  Prevost,  sir. 


270  ABOUT   SAVANNAH. 

With  warlike  parade, 

And  his  Irish  brigade, 
His  ships  and  his  spruce  Grallic  host,  sir, 

As  proud  as  an  elf, 

D'Estaing  came  himself, 
And  landed  on  G-eorgia's  coast,  sir. 

There  joining  a  band, 

Under  Lincoln's  command, 
Of  rebels  and  traitors  and  whigs,  sir, 

'G-ainst  the  town  of  Savannah 

He  planted  his  banner, 
And  then  he  felt  wonderous  big,  sir. 

With  thund'ring  of  guns. 

And  bursting  of  bombs. 
He  thought  to  have  frighten'd  our  boys,  sir. 

But  amidst  all  their  din, 

Brave  Maitland  push'd  in,^ 
And  Moncrieffe  *  cried,  "  A  fig  for  your  noise,"  sir. 

Chagrined  at  delay. 

As  he  meant  not  to  stay, 


ABOUT    SAVANNAH.  271 

The  Count  form'd  his  troops  in  the  morn,^  sir. 

Van,  centre,  and  reai' 

March'd  up  without  fear, 
Cock  sure  of  success,  by  a  storm,  sir. 

Though  rude  was  the  shock, 

Unmov'd  as  a  rock. 
Stood  our  firm  British  bands  to  their  works,  sir. 

While  the  brave  German  corps, 

And  Americans  bore 
Their  parts  as  intrepid  as  Turks,  sir. 

Then  muskets  did  rattle, 

Fierce  raged  the  battle, 
Grape  shot,  it  flew  thicker  than  hail,  sir. 

The  ditch  fill'd  with  slain. 

Blood  dyed  all  the  plain. 
When  rebels  and  French  turned  tail,  sir.  ■ 

See  !  see  !  how  they  run ! 

Lord  !  what  glorious  fun ! 
How  they  tumble,  by  cannon  mow'd  down,  sir ! 

Brains  fly  all  around. 

Dying  screeches  resound, 
And  mangled  limbs  cover  the  ground,  sir. 


272  ABOUT    SAVANNAH. 

There  Pulaski  fell/ 

That  imp  of  old  Bell, 
Who  attempted  to  murder  his  king,^  sir. 

But  now  he  is  gone, 

Whence  he'll  never  return  ; 
But  will  make  hell  with  treason  to  ring,  sir. 

To  Charleston  with  fear, 

The  rebels  repair ; 
D'Estaing  scampers  back  to  his  boats,  sir, 

Each  blaming  the  other. 

Each  cursing  his  brother, 
And — ^may  they  cut  each  other's  throats,  sir. 

Scarce  three  thousand  men, 
The  town  did  maintain, 

'Gainst  three  times  their  number  of  foes,  sir, 
Who  left  on  the  plain, 
Of  wounded  and  slain, 

Three  thousand  to  fatten  the  crows,  sir. 

Three  thousand  !  no  less  !  ® 
For  the  rebels  confess 


ABOUT    SAVANNAH.  273 

Some  loss,  as  you  very  well  know,  sir. 

Then  let  bumpers  go  round, 

And  re-echo  the  sound. 
Huzza  for  the  king  and  Prevost,  sir. 

^  Brave  Maitland pushed  in.  D'Estaing,  before  his  junction  with 
Lincoln,  demanded  a  surrender  of  the  town  to  the  arms  of  France ; 
Avhen  Prevost  asked  for  twenty-four  hours  suspension  of  hostilities 
that  he  might  prepare  proper  terms.  INIeanwhile  Colonel  Maitland, 
with  a  large  body  of  men,  marched  from  Beaufort  and  joined  the 
royal  army.  Prevost,  thus  reinforced,  deteimined  on  resistance. 
Colonel  Maitland  died  during  the  siege,  of  a  bilious  disorder. 

"^  And  Mcncrieffe.  Major  Moncrieffe  was  the  engineer  Avho 
planned  the  defences  of  Savannah. 

^  The  Count  formed  his  troops  in  the  mom.  On  a  report  from  the 
engineers,  that  a  long  time  would  be  required  to  take  possession  of 
the  town  by  regular  approaches,  it  was  determined  to  make  an  as- 
sault. Early  on  the  morning  of  the  tenth  of  October,  nearly  five 
thousand  troops,  consisting  of  French,  Continentals  and  the  inhab- 
itants of  Charleston,  marched  up  to  the  lines,  led  on  by  D'Estaing 
and  Lincoln.  But  a  heavy  and  well-directed  fire  from  the  batteries, 
and  a  cross  fire  from  the  galleys,  threw  them  into  confusion,  and  a 
retreat  was  ordered  after  they  had  stood  the  enemy's  fire  for  fifty- 
five  minutes.     Ramsay. 

^  There  Pulasli/ell.  Count  D'Estaing  and  Count  Pulaski  were 
both  vvounded ;  the  latter  mortally.  He  was  struck  by  a  small  can- 
non ball  and  fell  from  his  horse,  while  leading  his  troops.  In  the 
retreat,  he  was  borne  fx-om  the  field  and  placed  upon  one  of  the  ships 
iu  the  harbor,  where  he  died.  He  was  buried  uude,  a  large  syca- 
more on  St.  Helen's  Isle,  about  forty  miles  from  Savauaah. 

^  Who  attempted  to  murder  his  hvng.  Pulaski  was  a  native  of 
Poland.  In  1769  he  was  engaged  in  a  rebellion  against  Stanislaus, 
king  of  Poland.     In  1771,  he,  with  a  body  of  chosen  men,  entered 

12* 


274  ABOUT    SAVANNAH. 


Warsaw  for  the  purpose  of  seizing  the  king.  They  so  far  succeeded 
as  to  carry  him  •without  the  walls  of  the  city  ;  but  were  obliged  to 
leave  him,  and  escape  from  a  troop  of  horse  that  were  sent  to  over- 
take them.  His  army  was  afterwards  defeated,  and  his  estates  con~ 
fiscated,  when  he  went  to  Paris.  In  1777  he  went  to  America  and 
joined  the  army  under  Washington,  where  he  distinguished  himself 
by  his  good  service  to  the  cause  he  had  embraced. 

^  Three  thousand!  no  less.  The  French  lost  in  killed  and  wounded 
six  hundred  and  thirty-seven  men,  and  the  Americans  four  hundred 
and  fifty-seven.  The  British  loss  did  not  exceed  one  hundred  and 
seventy-five. 


1779. 

This  ballad  commemorates  the  attack  upon  Savannah.  It  ap- 
peared in  Rivington's  Gazette,  as  "  A  new  song  to  an  old  time, 
written  by  a  Yankee,  and  sung  to  the  tune  of  Doodle  doo." 

A  NEW  SONG. 

The  Frenchmen  came  upon  the  coast, 
Our  great  allies,  and  they  did  boast, 
They  soon  would  bang  the  British  host, 
Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 

D'Estaing  he  wrote  to  Greneral  Lincoln, 
And  told  him  that  he  need  not  think  on 
Danger,  but  in  quick  step  march  down. 
Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 


276  A    NEW    SONG. 

So  Lincoln  came  down  to  Savannah, 
The  French  and  we  all  sung  hosanna, 
We  soon  will  take  them  every  man-a. 

Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 

Then  Maitland  came  just  in  the  nick, 
Or  we'd  have  shown  them  such  a  trick, 
As  would  have  made  them  very  sick. 

Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 

But  soon  we  found  ourselves  mistaken, 
And  were  glad  to  save  our  bacon, 
Rather  than  be  killed  or  taken. 

Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 

We  thought  to  take  the  enemy. 
But  we,  alas  !  were  forced  to  fly, 
We  may  do  better  by  and  by. 

Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 

The  French,  it's  true,  behav'd  quite  civil. 
Yet  we  wish'd  them  to  the  devil, 
And  hope  that  good  may  spring  from  evil. 
Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 


A    NEW    SONG.  277 

And  now  tliat  they  on  board  are  gone, 
Have  left  poor  us  here  all  alone, 
We've  nought  to  do  but  sigh  and  moan. 
Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 

The  enemy  must  keep  their  post, 
In  spite  of  all  the  Gallic  host. 
And  Greorgia  we've  for  ever  lost. 

Doodle  doodle  do,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa,  pa. 


%k  '§t(m. 


1779. 

This  satire  first  appeared  at  London,  where  it  was  written  hy  "  a 
true  friend  of  the  King  and  the  Colonies."  It  was  reproduced  in 
America,  in  1779,  on  a  music  sheet,  adapted  to  the  tone  "  Yankee 
Doodle." 

THE  RECESS.^ 

And  now  our  Senators  are  gone 
To  take  their  leave  of  London, 

To  mourn  how  little  they  have  done, 
How  much  they  have  left  undone  ! 

Heaven  bless  'em  in  their  summer  seats. 
And  grant  their  neighbors  stare  at 

The  long  recounting  of  their  feats, 

Though  wond'ring  much  what  they're  at ! 


THE    RECESS.  279 

Bless'd  be  the  times  when  men  may  do, 

What  no  one  comprehendeth  ; 
May  boast  of  deeds  that  all  must  rue, 

Nor  judge  where  nonsense  endeth  ! 

One  year,  with  half  ten  thousand  men, 

We  swallow  all  our  foes  up  ; 
The  next,  the  times  are  turnM,  and  then 

Old  England's  scale  light  goes  up. 

But  still  with  courage  and  with  glee. 

New  laws  we  must  be  framing ; 
With  paper  and  with  parchment,  we 

The  savages  are  taming. 

We  swear  the  transatlantic  folks 

Shall  all  obey  our  orders ; 
While  they  turn  all  we  do  to  jokes, 

And  cry  out,  "  guard  your  borders." 

Well,  then,  we'll  go  to  war  with  France — 
Yes — no — we  must — we  mustn't ; 

John  Bull  shall  teach  Monsieur  to  dance — 
But  can't — and  there's  the  curse  on't. 


280  THE    RECESS. 

What's  to  be  done  ? — we'll  end  the  jar — 
But  how  ? — Ah  !  there's  the  devil — 

'Tis  easier  to  provoke  a  war 
By  far,  than  cure  the  evil. 

We  trust  you'll  nearer  hit  the  point 
When  you  shall  meet  next  winter ; 

A.nd  if  you  cannot  set  the  joint, 
Be  sure  reduce  the  splinter. 

*  The  Recess.  The  editor  of  the  Pennsylvania  Ledger,  a  loyal 
newspaper,  printed  at  Philadelphia,  had  a  great  antipathy  to  "  all 
snch  faint  praise."  "These  scurrilous  verses,"  says  he,  "are  cal- 
culated to  do  more  harm  to  our  king  and  country,  than  would  the 
defeat  of  one  half  of  our  army.  It  is  only  another  instance  of  the 
hase,  perfidious  means  made  use  of  hy  the  quiet  leaders  in  the  pres- 
ent rehellion,  to  suhvert  law  and  the  rights  of  the  ministry.  Such 
moderate  writers  ought  to  have  a  cord  for  their  moderation.  God 
save  the  King  !  " 


\utt\)  Bn$. 


1779. 

This  song  was  published  in  the  Pennsylvania  Packet,  at  Phila- 
delphia, as  "  A  song  made  by  a  Dutch  lady  at  the  Hague,  for  the 
sailors  of  the  five  American  vessels  at  Amsterdam.  .  June,  1779." 

DUTCH  SONG. 

GrOD  save  the  Thirteen  States  ! 
Long  rule  th'  United  States  ! 

God  save  our  States  ! 
Make  us  victorious ; 
Happy  and  glorious ; 
No  tyrants  over  us ; 

God  save  our  States  ! 


282  DUTCH    SONG. 

Oft  did  America 
Foresee,  with  sad  dismay, 

Her  slav'ry  near. 
Oft  did  her  grievance  state, 
But  Britain,  falsely  great. 
Urging  her  desp'rate  fate, 

Turn'd  a  deaf  ear. 

Now  the  proud  British  foe 
We've  made,  by  vict'ries,  know, 

Our  sacred  right. 
Witness  at  Bunker's  Hill, 
Where  godlike  Warren  fell, 
Happy  his  blood  to  spill. 

In  gallant  fight. 


To  our  fam'd  Washington, 
Brave  Stark  at  Bennington, 

Grlory  is  due. 
Peace  to  Montgomery's  shade. 
Who  as  he  fought  and  bled. 
Drew  honors  round  his  head, 

Num'rous  as  true. 


DUTCH    SONG.  283 

Look  to  Sar'toga's  plain, 
Our  captures  on  the  main, 

Moultrie's  defence. 
Our  catalogue  is  long, 
Of  heroes  yet  unsung, 
Who  noble  feats  have  done 

For  independence. 

The  melting  mother's  moans. 
The  aged  father's  groans, 

Have  steel'd  our  arms. 
Ye  British  Whigs  beware  I 
Your  chains  near  formed  are. 
In  spite  of  Richmond's  care 

To  sound  alarms. 


Come  join  your  hands  to  ours ; 
No  royal  blocks,  no  tow'rs ; 

God  save  us  all ! 
Thus  in  our  country's  cause, 
And  to  support  our  laws ; 
Our  swords  shall  never  pause 

At  Freedom's  call. 


284  DUTCH    SONG. 


We'll  fear  no  tyrant's  nod, 
Nor  stern  oppression's  rod, 

Till  Time's  no  more. 
Thus  Liberty,  when  driv'n 
From  Europe's  states,  is  giv'n 
A  safe  retreat  and  hav'n, 

On  our  free  shore. 

O,  Lord  !  thy  gifts  in  store, 
We  pray  on  Congress  pour, 

To  guide  our  States. 
May  union  bless  our  land, 
While  we,  with  heart  and  hand, 
Our  mutual  rights  defend, 

God  save  our  States ! 

God  save  the  Thirteen  States  ! 
Long  watch  the  prosp'rous  fates 

Over  our  States  ! 
Make  us  victorious  ; 
Happy  and  glorious ; 
No  tyrants  over  us  ; 

God  save  our  States  ! 


Wtintm  i0BS. 


1780. 

This  is  one  of  the  best  convivial  songs  produced  during  the  war. 
Its  authorship  has  been  attributed  to  Henry  Archer,^  a  native  of 
England,  who  emigrated  to  America  in  1778,  and  embraced  the 
cause  of  the  Colonists. 

VOLUNTEER  BOYS. 

Hence  with  the  lover  who  sighs  o'er  his  wine, 

Cloes  and  Phillises  toasting, 
Hence  with  the  slave  who  will  whimper  and  whine, 
Of  ardor  and  constancy  boasting. 
Hence  with  love's  joys, 
Follies  and  noise, 
The  toast  that  I  give  is  the  Volunteer  Boys. 


286  VOLUNTEER    BOYS. 

Nobles  and  "beauties  and  such  common  toasts, 

Those  who  admire  may  drink,  sir ; 
Fill  up  the  glass  to  the  volunteer  hosts, 

Who  never  from  danger  will  shrink,  sir. 
Let  mirth  appear. 
Every  heart  cheer. 
The  toast  that  I  give  is  the  brave  volunteer. 

Here's  to  the  squire  who  goes  to  parade 

Here's  to  the  citizen  soldier ; 
Here's  to  the  merchant  who  fights  for  his  trade, 
Whom  danger  increasing  makes  bolder. 
Let  mirth  appear. 
Union  is  here, 
The  toast  that  I  give  is  the  brave  volunteer. 

Here's  to  the  lawyer,  who,  leaving  the  bar, 

Hastens  where  honor  doth  lead,  sir. 
Changing  the  gown  for  the  ensigns  of  war, 
The  cause  of  his  country  to  plead,  sir. 
Freedom  appears, 
Every  heart  cheers. 
And  calls  for  the  health  of  the  law  volunteers. 


VOLUNTEER   BOYS.  287 

Here's  to  the  soldier,  though  batter'd  in  wars, 

And  safe  to  his  farm-house  retir'd ; 
When  called  by  his  country,  ne'er  thinks  of  his  scars, 
With  ardor  to  join  us  inspir'd. 
Bright  fame  appears, 
Trophies  uprear. 
To  veteran  chiefs  who  became  volunteers. 

Here's  to  the  farmer  who  dares  to  advance 

To  harvests  of  honor  with  pleasure  ; 
Who  with  a  slave  the  most  skilful  in  France, 
A  sword  for  his  country  would  measure. 
Hence  with  cold  fear, 
Heroes  rise  here ; 
The  ploughman  is  chang'd  to  the  stout  volunteer. 

Here's  to  the  peer,  first  in  senate  and  field, 
Whose  actions  to  titles  add  grace,  sir ; 
Whose  spirit  undaunted  would  never  yet  yield 
To  a  foe,  to  a  pension  or  place,  sir. 
Gratitude  here, 
Toasts  to  the  peer. 
Who  adds  to  his  titles,  "the  brave  volunteer." 


288  VOLUNTEER    BOYS. 

Thus  the  bold  bands  for^  old  Jersey's  defence, 

The  muse  hath  with  rapture  review'd,  sir ; 
With  our  volunteer  boys,  as  our  verses  commence. 
With  our  volunteer  boys  they  conclude,  sir. 
Discord  or  noise. 
Ne'er  damp  our  joys, 
But  health  and  success  to  the  volunteer  boys. 

^  Henry  Archer.  "  Dr.  French,"  a  nephew  of  the  celebrated 
Jonathan  French  (minister  at  Andover,  Mass.),  now  living  in  the 
town  of  Rockingham,  Vermont,  says  he  often  heard  his  father  say 
that  "  Henry  Archer,  a  gentleman  from  England,"  was  the  author 
of  the  "  Volunteer  Boys."  By  referring  to  the  Pennsylvania  Packet, 
October,  1778,  the  reader  will  find  the  following.  "  Philadelphia — 
Friday  last,  arrived  in  this  city,  Henry  Archer,  Esq.  This  young 
gentleman  has  been  educated  at  a  military  school,  in  England, 
where  he  owned  a  handsome  fortune,  which  he  has  lately  sold,  in 
order  to  embark  as  a  volunteer  in  the  American  army." 


1780. 

This  song  was  transposed  by  a  refugee,  and  intended  for  the 
loyalists  without  the  lines,  while  D'Estaing  was  in  Georgia ;  but  it 
was  not  published  until  some  time  after  the  French  fleet  had  left  the 
coast.  It  was  adapted  to  the  tune  "  The  Cut-Purse,"  and  became 
very  popular  with  the  friends  of  royalty,  during  the  latter  part  of 
the  war. 

A  SONG. 

The  old  English  cause  knocks  at  every  man's  door, 

And  bids  him  stand  up  for  religion  and  right ; 
It  addresses  the  rich  as  well  as  the  poor ; 

And  fair  liberty,  bids  them,  like  Englishmen  fight. 
And  suffer  no  wrong, 
From  a  rebel  throng, 
Who,  if  they're  not  quelled,  will  enslave  us  ere  long ; 
13 


290  AN    APPEAL. 

Most  bravely  then  let  us  our  liberty  prize, 
Nor  suffer  the  Congress  to  blmd  all  our  eyes ; 

Or  each  rebel  cut-purse,  will  soon  give  us  law, 
For  they  are  as  bad  as  a  Tyler  or  Straw. 

From  France,  D'Estaing  to  America  has  come. 

The  French  banditti  will  rob  our  estates ; 
These  robbers  are  all  protected  by  Rome;* 

Consult  but  their  annals,  record  but  their  dates, 
It's  their  politics 
To  burn  heretics. 
Or  poison  by  water  that's  fetch'd  from  the  Styx. 
Let  Frenchified  rebels,  in  vain  then  attempt 
To  bring  our  own  church,  or  our  king  to  contempt ; 
For  no  rebel  cut-purse  shall  e'er  give  us  law, 
Should  they  prove  as  daring  as  Tyler  or  Straw. 

The  farces  of  Eome,  with  carrying  her  hosts. 

Are  laugh'd  at  and  jeer'd  by  the  learned  and  wise, 
And  all  her  thin  tinsels  apparently  lost. 
Her  stories  of  relics,  and  sanctified  lies. 
Each  ignorant  joke 
Believe,  or  you  smoke, 
And  if  we  are  conquer'd  we  receive  the  Pope's  yoke ; 


AN    APPEAL.  291 

But  despising  tlie  counsels  of  Adams  and  Lee, 

As  loyal  Americans,  we'll  die  or  be  free. 

For  no  rebel  cut-thi'oat  shall  e'er  give  us  law, 
Should  they  prove  as  daring  as  Tyler  or  Straw. 

Let  curses  most  vile,  and  anathemas  roar, 

Let  half-ruin'd  France,  to  the  Pope  tribute  pay ; 
Britain's  thundering  cannon,  shall  guard  safe  our  shore ; 
Great  Greorge  shall  defend  us,  none  else  we'll  obey. 
Then  France,  join'd  by  Spain, 
May  labor  in  vain. 
For  soon  the  Havana  shall  be  ours  again. 
The  French  then  will  scamper  and  quit  every  state, 
And  find  themselves  bubbled,  when  morhleu   it's    too 
late. 
For  no  Frenchman,  or- rebel  imp  of  the  law, 
In  our  old  constitution  can  point  out  a  flaw. 

^  These  robbers  are  all  protected  hy  Rome.  The  loyal  writers  used 
every  effort  to  frighten  the  patriots  into  a  return  to  their  allegiance 
to  the  king  of  Great  Britain.  Among  these,  they  pictured  the 
supremacy  of  the  Pope  as  a  sure  consequence  upon  the  success  of 
the  French  in  America,  and  invented  many  ahsurd  stories  about  the 
"  inevitable  destnaction  of  life,  liberty  and  property,  that  must  ensue 
if  the  rebel  Congress  should  have  its  sway."  The  following  appeared 
in  Riviugton's  Gazette  :     "  The  clergy  and    selectmen   of  Boston 


292  AN    APPEAL. 

paraded  through  the  streets  after  a  crucifix,  and  joined  in  a  proces- 
sion in  praying  for  a  departed  soul  out  of  purgatory ;  and  for  this, 
they  gave  the  example  of  Congress,  and  other  American  leaders,  on 
a  former  occasion  at  Philadelphia,  some  of  whom  in  the  height  of 
their  zeal,  even  went  so  far  as  to  sprinkle  themselves  with  what  they 
call  holy  water." 

At  another  time  Rivington  published  :  "  On  the  receipt  of  the 
last  manifesto  from  the  English  commissioners,  one  of  the  Congress 
had  the  resolution  to  make  the  following  short  speech :  '  I  have 
listened  to  this  manifesto  with  great  attention,  and  am  not  ashamed 
to  acknowledge  that  it  breathes  a  spirit  of  candor  and  resolution  by 
which  I  am  considerably  influenced.  No  man  in  this  august  assem- 
bly will  dare  to  express  a  doubt  of  my  sincere  attachment  to  the 
true  interest  of  my  country.  I  am  convinced  that  the  interest  of 
America  is  inseparable  from  that  of  Britain,  and  that  our  alliance 
with  France  is  unnatural,  unprofitable,  and  absurd.  I  therefore 
move  that  this  phantom  of  Independence  may  be  given  up.' 

"  He  had  hardly  uttered  the  words  before  the  president  sent  a  mes- 
senger to  fetch  the  Polish  Count  Pulaski,  who  happened  to  be  exer- 
cising a  part  of  his  legion  in  the  court-yard  below.  The  Count  flew 
to  the  chamber  where  the  Congress  sat,  and  with  his  sabre  in  an 
instant  severed  from  his  body  the  head  of  this  honest  delegate. 
The  head  was  ordered  by  the  Congress  to  be  fixed  on  the  top  of  the 
liberty  pole  of  Philadelphia,  as  a  perpetual  monument  of  the  free- 
dom of  debate  in  the  Continental  Congress  of  the  United  States  of 
America." 


ClarUston. 


1780. 

The  reduction  of  Charleston,  South  Carolina,  by  the  British,  in 
1780,  was  the  subject  of  numerous  songs  and  poems.  The  subjoined 
specimen  was  written  by  an  officer  of  the  royal  army,  and  first  pub- 
lished in  a  ballad-sheet,  set  to  the  time  of  the  "  Watery  God." 


A  SONG  ABOUT  CHAKLESTOK 

King  Hancock  '  sat  in  regal  state, 
And  big  with  pride  and  vainly  great, 

Address'd  his  rebel  crew, 
These  haughty  Britons  soon  shall  yield 
The  boasted  honors  of  the  field, 

While  our  brave  sons  pursue. 


294  CHARLESTON. 

.     Six  thousand  fighting  men  or  more, 
Protect  the  Carolina  shore, 

And  Freedom  will  defend ; 
And  stubborn  Britons  soon  shall  feel, 
'G-ainst  Charleston,  and  hearts  of  steel. 

How  vainly  they  contend. 

But  ere  he  spake  in  dread  array. 
To  rebel  foes,  ill-fated  day. 

The  British  boys  appear  ; 
Their  mien  with  martial  ardor  fir'd, 
And  by  their  country's  wrongs  inspir'd, 

Shook  Lincoln's  heart  with  fear. 

See  Clinton  brave,  serene,  and  great, 
For  mighty  deeds  rever'd  by  fate, 

Direct  the  thund'ring  fight. 
While  Mars,  propitious  God  of  war, 
Looks  down  from  his  triumphal  car, 

With  wonder  and  delight. 

"  Clinton,"  he  cries,  "  the  palm  is  thine, 
'Midst  heroes  thou  wert  born  to  shine, 
A  great  immortal  name. 


CHARLESTON.  295 

And  Cornwallis'  mighty  deeds  appear, 
Conspicuous  each  revolving  year, 
The  pledge  of  future  fame." 

Our  tars,  their  share  of  glories  won. 
For  they  among  the  bravest  shone. 

Undaunted,  firm  and  bold. 
Whene'er  engag'd,  their  ardor  show'd 
Hearts  which  with  native  valor  glow'd, 

Hearts  of  true  British  mould. 


'  King  Hancock.  About  the  time  this  ballad  was  written,  the 
subjoined  paragraph  appeared  in  the  loyal  newspapers  :  "  John  Han- 
cock and  Samuel  Adams. — Fortune,  in  one  of  her  highest  frolics, 
elevated  those  malignant  stars  to  the  zenith  of  power.  The  baneful 
influence  of  their  conjunction,  in  the  "Western  poHtical  hemisphere, 
has  produced  direful  eflfects ;  but,  when  the  lunacies  of  the  former  are 
separated  from  the  villanies  of  the  latter,  the  deluge  of  destruction 
that  is  certainly,  though  slowly,  rolling  after  them,  will  rapidly  come 
on,  and  overwhelm  them  and  their  infatuated  votaries  in  prodigious 
ruin. 

"  John  Hancock  appears  in  public  with  all  the  pageantiy  and 
state  of  an  Oriental  prince.  He  rides  in  an  elegant  chariot,  which 
was  taken  in  a  prize  to  the  '  Civil  Usage,'  a  pirate  vessel,  and  by  the 
owners  presented  to  him.  He  is  attended  by  four  servants,  dressed 
in  superb  livery,  mounted  on  fine  horses  richly  caparisoned,  and 
escorted  by  fifty  horsemen  with  drawn  sabres,  the  one  half  of  whom 
precede,  and  the  other  foUow,  his  carriage.  So,  at  present,  figures 
this  man,  who  owes  his  greatness  to  his  country's  ruin." 


(But  Mmmn. 

1780. 

Thege  lines  were  addressed  to  the  females  of  Pennsylvania  and 
New  Jersey,  "  who  illustrated  the  nobility  of  their  sentiment  and 
virtue  of  their  patriotism,  by  generons  subscriptions  to  the  suffering 
soldiers  of  the  American  army."     The  author  is  unknown. 

OUR  WOMEN. 

All  hail !  superior  sex,  exalted  fair, 
Mirrors  of  virtue,  Heaven's  peculiar  care ; 
Form'd  to  enspirit  and  enoble  man 
The  immortal  finish  of  Creation's  plan  ! 

Accept  the  tribute  of  our  warmest  praise 
The  soldier's  blessing  and  the  patriot's  bays  ! 
For  fame's  first  plaudit  we  no  more  contest 
Constrain'd  to  own  it  decks  the  female  breast. 


OUR    WOMEN.  297 

While  partial  prejudice  is  quite  disarm'd, 
And  e'en  pale  envy  with  encomiums  charm'd, 
Freedom  no  more  shall  droop  her  languid  head, 
Nor  dream  supine  on  sloth's  lethargic  bed. 

No  more  sit  weeping  o'er  the  veteran  band, 
Those  virtuous,  brave  protectors  of  her  land ; 
Who,  nobly  daring,  stem  despotic  sway. 
And  live  the  patriot  wonders  of  the  day. 

For  lo  !  these  sons  her  glorious  work  renew, 
Cheer'd  by  such  gifts,  and  smiles,  and  pray'rs  from 

you! 
More  precious  treasure  in  the  soldier's  eye 
Than  all  the  wealth  Potosi's  mines  supply. 

And  now  ye  sister  angels  of  each  state. 
Their  honest  bosoms  glow  with  joy  elate, 
Their  gallant  hearts  with  gratitude  expand 
And  trebly  feel  the  bounties  of  your  hand. 

And  wing'd  for  you  their  benedictions  rise. 
Warm  from  the  soul  and  grateful  to  the  skies  ! 
Nor  theirs  alone  th'  historian  patriots  fir'd, 
Shall  bless  the  generous  virtue  you've  inspir'd. 


298  OUR    WOMEN. 

Invent  new  epithet  to  warm  their  page, 
And  bid  you  live  admired  from  age  to  age; 
With  sweet  applauses  dwell  on  every  name, 
Endear  your  memories  and  embalm  your  fame, 

And  thus  the  future  bards  shall  soar  sublime, 
And  waft  you  glorious  down  the  stream  of  time ; 
The  breeze  of  panegyric,  fill  each  sail. 
And  plaudits  pure  perfume  the  increasing  gale. 

Then  freedom's  ensign  thus  inscribed  shall  wave, 
"  The  patriot  females  who  their  country  save  ;  " 
Till  time's  abyss  absorb'd  in  heavenly  lays. 
Shall  flow  in  your  eternity  of  praise. 


1780. 

This  ballad  was  written  by  Major  John  Andre/  and  first  pub- 
lished in  the  Royal  Gazette.  It  commemorates  the  attack  of  Gene- 
ral Wayne,  upon  the  Refugee's  Block  House,  situated  on  the  Hudson 
River,  about  four  miles  below  Fort  Lee,  on  the  twenty-first  of  July, 

1780. 

THE  COW  CHACE.- 

Part    I. 

To  drive  the  kine  one  summer's  morn, 

The  tanner  took  his  way ; 
The  calf  shall  rue  that  is  unborn, 

The  jumbling  of  that  day. 

And  Wayne  descending  steers  shall  know, 

And  tauntingly  deride ; 
And  call  to  mind  in  every  low, 

The  tanning  of  his  hide. 


300  THE    COW    CHACE. 

Yet  Bergen  cows  still  ruminate, 

Unconscious  in  the  stall, 
What  mighty  means  were  used  to  get, 

And  loose  them  after  all. 

For  many  heroes  bold  and  brave, 
From  Newbridge  and  Tappan, 

And  those  that  drink  Passaic's  wave. 
And  those  who  eat  supaun ; 

And  sons  of  distant  Delaware, 

And  still  remoter  Shannon, 
And  Major  Lee  with  horses  rare, 

And  Proctor  with  his  cannon. 

All  wondTous  proud  in  arms  they  came, 

What  hero  could  refuse 
To  tread  the  rugged  path  to  fame, 

Who  had  a  pair  of  shoes ! 

At  six,  the  host  with  sweating  buff. 

Arrived  at  Freedom's  pole ; 
When  Wayne,  who  thought  he'd  time  enough, 

Thus  speechified  the  whole. 


THE    COW    CHACE.  301 

"  0  ye,  who  glory  doth  unite, 

Who  Freedom's  cause  espouse ; 
Whether  the  wing  that's  doom'd  to  fight, 

Or  that  to  drive  the  cows, 

"  Ere  yet  you  tempt  your  further  way, 

Or  into  action  come. 
Hear,  soldiers,  what  I  have  to  say, 

And  take  a  pint  of  rum. 

"  Intemp'rate  valor  then  will  string 

Each  nervous  arm  the  better; 
So  all  the  land  shall  I  0  sing, 

And  read  the  General's  letter. 

"  Know  that  some  paltry  refugees, 

Whom  I've  a  mind  to  fight ; 
Are  playing  h — 1  amongst  the  trees 

That  grow  on  yonder  height. 

"  Their  fort  and  block-houses  we'll  level, 

And  deal  a  horrid  slaughter ; 
We'll  drive  the  scoundrels  to  the  devil, 

And  ravish  wife  and  daughter. 


302  THE    COAV    CHACE. 

"  I,  under  cover  of  attack, 

Whilst  3-0U  are  all  at  blows, 

From  English  neighb'rhood  and  Nyack 
Will  drive  away  the  cows  ; 

"  For  well  you  know  the  latter  is 

The  serious  operation, 
And  fighting  with  the  refugees 

Is  only  demonstration." 

His  daring  words,  from  all  the  crowd, 
Such  great  applause  did  gain, 

That  every  man  declar'd  aloud, 
For  serious  work  with  Wayne. 

Then  from  the  cask  of  rum  once  more, 
They  took  a  heady  gill ; 

When  one  and  all,  they  loudly  swore, 
They'd  fight  upon  the  hill. 

But  here  the  muse  hath  not  a  strain 
Befitting  such  great  deeds  ; 

Huzza  !  they  cried,  huzza  !  for  Wayne, 
And  shouting . 


THE    OOW    CHACE.  303 


Part  II. 


Near  his  meridian  pomp,  the  sun 

Had  journey 'd  from  the  horizon ; 

When  fierce  the  dusky  tribe  mov'd  on, 
Of  heroes  drunk  as  pison. 

The  sounds  confus'd  of  boasting  oaths, 
Re-echo' d  through  the  wood ; 

Some  vow'd  to  sleep  in  dead  men's  clothes, 
And  some  to  swim  in  blood. 

At  Irving's  nod  'twas  fine  to  see, 

The  left  prepare  to  fight ; 
The  while,  the  drovers,  Wayne  and  Lee, 

Drew  off  upon  the  right. 

.Which  Irving  'twas,  fame  don't  relate, 
Nor  can  the  muse  assist  her  ; 

Whether  'twas  he  that  cocks  a  hat, 
Or  he  that  gives  a  clyster 


304  THE    cow    CHACE. 

For  greatly  one  was  signaliz'd, 

That  fougiit  on  Chestnut  Hill ; 

And  Canada  immortaliz'd 
The  vender  of  the  pill. 

Yet  the  attendance  upon  Proctor, 

They  both  might  have  to  boast  of; 

For  there  was  business  for  the  doctor, 
And  hats  to  be  disposed  of. 

Let  none  uncandidly  infer. 

That  Stirling  wanted  spunk ; 

The  self-made  peer  had  sure  been  there, 
But  that  the  peer  was  drunk. 

But  turn  we  to  the  Hudson's  banks. 
Where  stood  the  modest  train  ; 

With  purpose  firm,  though  slender  ranks, 
Nor  car'd  a  pin  for  Wayne. 

For  them  the  unrelenting  hand 
Of  rebel  fury  drove  ; 
.  And  tore  from  every  genial  band 
Of  friendship  and  of  love. 


THE    COW    CHACE.  305 

And  some  within  a  dungeon's  gloom, 

By  mock  tribunals  laid ; 
Had  waited  long  a  cruel  doom 

Impending  o'er  each  head. 

Here  one  bewails  a  brother's  fate. 

There  one  a  sire  demands, 
Cut  off,  alas  !  before  their  date, 

By  ignominious  hands. 

And  silver'd  grandsires  here  appear'd 

In  deep  distress  serene, 
Of  reverent  manners  that  declar'd 

The  better  days  they'd  seen. 

Oh,  curs'd  rebellion,  these  are  thine, 

Thine  are  these  tales  of  woe  ; 
Shall  at  thy  dire  insatiate  shine. 

Blood  never  cease  to  flow  ? 

And  now  the  foe  began  to  lead 

His  forces  to  the  attack  ; 
Balls  whistling  unto  balls  succeed. 

And  make  the  block-house  cracl 

17 


306  THE    cow    CHACE. 

No  shot  could  pass,  if  you  will  take 
The  General's  word  for  true ; 

But  'tis  a  d ble  mistake, 

For  every  shot  went  through. 

The  firmer  as  the  rebels  press'd, 
The  loyal  heroes  stand ; 

Virtue  had  nerv'd  each  honest  breast, 
And  industry  each  hand. 

"  In  valor's  frenzy,  Hamilton, 
Rode  like  a  soldier  big, 

And  secretary  Harrison, 

With  pen  stuck  in  his  wig." 

"  But  lest  their  chieftain  Washington, 
Should  mourn  them  in  the  mumps. 

The  fate  of  Withrington  to  shun. 

They  fought  behind  the  stumps." 

But  ah,  Thaddeus  Posset,  why 
Should  thy  poor  soul  elope  ? 

And  why  should  Titus  Hooper  die, 
Ay,  die — without  a  rope  ? 


THE    COW    CHACE,  307 

Apostate  Murphy,  thou  to  whom 

Fair  Shela  ne'er  was  cruel, 
In  death  shalt  hear  her  mourn  thy  doom, 

"  Och !  would  you  die,  my  jewel  ?  " 

Thee,  Nathan  Pumpkin,  I  lament. 

Of  melancholy  fate ; 
The  gray  goose  stolen  as  he  went. 

In  his  heart's  blood  was  wet. 

Now,  as  the  fight  was  further  fought. 

And  balls  began  to  thicken. 
The  fray  assum'd,  the  generals  thought. 

The  color  of  a  lickin'. 

Yet  undismay'd  the  chiefs  command, 

And  to  redeem  the  day  ; 
Cry,  Soldiers,  charge  !  they  hear,  they  stand. 

They  turn  and  run  away. 


308  THE    cow    CHACE. 


Part   III. 

Not  all  delights  the  bloody  spear, 

Or  horrid  din  of  battle  ; 
There  are,  I'm  sure,  who'd  like  to  hear 

A  word  about  the  cattle. 

The  chief  whom  we  beheld  of  late, 
Near  Schralenburg  haranguing, 

At  Yan  Van  Poop's  unconscious  sat 
Of  Irving's  hearty  banging. 

Whilst  valiant  Lee,  with  coui-age  wild, 
Most  bravely  did  oppose 

The  tears  of  woman  and  of  child, 

Who  begg'd  he'd  leave  the  cows. 

But  Wayne,  of  sympathizing  heart. 

Required  a  relief; 
Not  all  the  blessings  could  impart 

Of  battle  or  of  beef 


THE    COW    CHACE.  309 

For  now  a  prey  to  female  charms, 

His  soul  took  more  delight  in 
A  lovely  hamadryad's  arms, 

Than  cow-driving  or  fighting. 

A  nymph  the  refugees  had  drove 

Far  from  her  native  tree. 
Just  happen'd  to  be  on  the  move, 

When  up  came  Wayne  and  Lee. 

She,  in  mad  Anthony's  fierce  eye, 

The  hero  saw  portray'd, 
And  all  in  tears  she  took  him  by 

—  The  bridle  of  his  jade. 

"  Hear,"  said  the  nymph,  "0,  great  commander ! 

No  human  lamentations ; 
The  trees  you  see  them  cutting  yonder. 

Are  all  my  near  relations. 

"  And  I,  forlorn  !  implore  thine  aid, 

To  free  the  sacred  grove  ; 
So  shall  thy  prowess  be  repaid 

With  an  immortal's  love." 


310  THE    COW    CHACE. 

Now  some,  to  prove  she  was  a  goddess, 
Said  this  enchanting  fair 

Had  late  retired  from  the  bodies 
In  all  the  pomp  of  war. 

The  drums  and  merry  fifes  had  play'd 

To  honor  her  retreat ; 
And  Cunningham  himself  convey'd 

The  lady  through  the  street. 

Great  Wayne,  by  soft  compassion  sway'd. 

To  no  inquiry  stoops, 
But  takes  the  fair  afflicted  maid 

Bight  into  Yan  Van  Poop's. 

So  Boman  Anthony,  they  say, 

Disgrac'd  the  imperial  banner, 

And  for  a  gypsy  lost  a  day, 
Like  Anthony  the  tanner. 

The  hamadryad  had  but  half 

Beceiv'd  address  from  Wayne, 

When  drums  and  colors,  cow  and  calf. 
Came  down  the  road  amain. 


THE    COW    CHACE.  311 

And  in  a  cloud  of  dust  was  seen 

Tke  sheep,  the  horse,  the  goat, 
The  gentle  heifer,  ass  obscene, 

The  yearling  and  the  shoat. 

And  pack-horses  with  fowls  came  by, 

Befeather'd  on  each  side ; 
Like  Pegasus,  the  horse  that  I 

And  other  poets  ride. 

Sublime  upon  his  stirrups  rose 

The  mighty  Lee  behind. 
And  drove  the  terror-smitten  cows 

Like  chaff  before  the  wind. 

But  sudden  see  the  woods  above. 

Pour  down  another  corps, 
All  helter-skelter  in  a  drove, 

Like  that  I  sung  before. 

Irving  and  terror  in  the  van. 

Came  flying  all  abroad  ; 
And  cannon,  colors,  horse,  and  man, 

Ran  tumbling  to  the  road. 


312  THE    COW    CHACE. 

Still  as  lie  fled,  'twas  living's  cry, 

And  liis  example  too, 
"  Run  on,  my  merry  men — For  why  ? 

The  shot  will  not  go  through."  " 

As  when  two  kennels  in  the  street, 

Swell'd  with  a  recent  rain. 
In  gushing  streams  together  meet, 

And  seek  the  neighboring  drain; 

So  met  these  dung-born  tribes  in  one, 

As  swift  in  their  career, 
And  so  to  Newbridge  they  ran  on — 

But  all  the  cows  got  clear. 

Poor  Parson  Caldwell,  all  in  wonder, 

Saw  the  returning  train, 
And  mourn'd  to  Wayne  the  lack  of  plunder 

For  them  to  steal  again. 

For  'twas  his  right  to  steal  the  spoil,  and 
To  share  with  each  commander, 

As  he  had  done  at  Staten  Island 
With  frost-bit  Alexander. 


THE    COW    CHACE.  313 

In  his  dismay,  the  frantic  priest, 

Began  to  grow  prophetic ; 
You'd  swore,  to  see  his  laboring  breast, 

He'd  taken  an  emetic. 

"  I  view  a  future  day,"  said  he, 

"  Brighter  than  this  day  dark  is ; 

And  you  shall  see  what  you  shall  see. 
Ha  !  ha  !  my  pretty  Marquis ! 

"  And  he  shall  come  to  Paulus  Hook, 
And  great  achievements  think  on ; 

And  make  a  bow  and  take  a  look. 
Like  Satan  over  Lincoln. 

"  And  every  one  around  shall  glory 

To  see  the  Frenchman  caper ; 
And  pretty  Susan  tell  the  story 

In  the  next  Chatham  paper." 

This  solemn  prophecy,  of  course, 

Gave  all  much  consolation. 
Except  to  Wayne,  who  lost  his  horse, 

Upon  that  great  occasion. 
14 


314  THE    COW    CHACE. 

His  horse  that  carried  all  his  prog, 

His  military  speeches ; 
His  corn-stock  whiskey  for  his  grog, 

Blue  stockings  and  brown  breeches. 

And  now  I've  clos'd  my  epic  strain, 

I  tremble  as  I  show  it, 
Lest  this  same  warrior-drover,  Wayne, 

Should  ever  catch  the  poet. 

'  John  Andre.  The  history  of  this  young  officer  is  well  known 
All  that  we  know  of  his  literary  efforts,  is  given  in  the  follow- 
ing advertisement,  which  appeared  in  Rivington's  Gazette  a  short 
time  after  he  was  executed.  "  Monody  on  Major  Andre,  by  his 
friend  and  correspondent,  Miss  Seward ;  with  three  letters,  writ- 
ten by  him,  at  eighteen  years  of  age,  to  a  most  accomplished  young 
lady,  the  object  of  his  tenderest  affection ;  also  a  few  copies  of  the 
three  cantos  of  the  Cow  Chace,  which  makes  the  collection  complete 
respecting  the  literaiy  productions  of  this  ever-valued  and  universal- 
ly beloved  young  gentleman." 

^  Coio  Chace.  Three  or  four  miles  below  Fort  Lee,  at  the  base 
of  the  Palisades,  on  Hudson  River,  is  a  little  village  called  Bull's 
Ferry.  Jiist  below  this  village,  was  a  block-house,  occupied  in  the 
summer  of  1 780,  by  a  British  picket,  for  the  protection  of  some 
wood-cutters,  and  the  neighboring  Tories.  On  Bergen  Xeck,  be- 
low, was  a  large  number  of  cattle  and  horses,  within  reach  of  the 
British  foragers,  who  might  go  out  from  the  fort  at  Paulus  Hook. 
Washington  then  sent  General  "Wa^nie,  with  some  Pennsylvania  and 
Maryland  troops,  to  storm  the  work  on  Blockhouse  Point,  and  to 
drive  the  cattle  within  the  American  lines.  Wayne  sent  the  caval- 
ry, under  Major  Lee,  to  perform  the  latter  duty,  while  he  and  three* 


THE    COW    CHACE.  315 


Pennsylvania  regiments  marched  against  the  block-house  with  four 
pieces  of  artillery.  They  made  a  spirited  attack,  but  their  cannons 
were  too  light  to  be  effective,  and,  after  a  skirmish,  the  Americans 
were  repulsed,  with  a  loss  in  kiUed  and  wounded  of  sixty-four  men. 
After  burning  some  wood-boats  near,  and  capturing  the  men  in 
charge  of  them,  Wayne  returned  to  camp  with  a  large  number  of 
cattle,  driven  by  the  dragoons. — Lossing's  Field  Book. 

The  last  canto  of  this  epic  was  published  on  the  day  when  Andre 
was  captured.  The  original  copy  is  still  in  existence,  and  has  the 
following  endorsement  upon  it,  under  the  signature  of  Major  Andre. 

"  When  the  epic  strain  was  sung, 
The  poet  by  the  ne<iJc  was  hung, 
And  to  his  cost  he  finds  too  late, 
The  dung-born  tribe  decides  his  fate." 

^  The  shot  wUl  not  go  through.  The  following  is  a  poetical  note 
by  the  author  of  the  song. 

"  Five  refugees  ('tis  true)  were  found, 
Stitf  on  the  block-house  floor ; 
But  then  'tis  thought  the  shot  went  round, 
And  in  at  the  back  door." 


1780. 

The  incidents  connected  with  the  capture  and  trial  of  Major 
Andre  are  well  known.  Many  songs  have  been  written,  lamenting 
his  unhappy  fate.  The  one  subjoined  we  copy  from  a  ballad-sheet 
printed  in  1783. 

BRAVE  PAULDING  AND  THE  SPY. 

Come  all  you  brave  Americans, 

And  unto  me  give  ear, 
And  I'll  sing  you  a  ditty 

That  will  your  spirits  cheer, 
Concerning  a  young  gentleman 

Whose  age  was  twenty-two ; 
He  fought  for  North  America, 

His  heart  was  just  and  true. 


I 


JOHN    PAULDING.  317 

They  took  him  from  his  dwelling, 

And  they  did  him  confine, 
They  cast  him  into  prison, 

And  kept  him  there  a  time. 
But  he  with  resolution 

Resolv'd  not  long  to  stay  ; 
He  set  himself  at  liberty, 

And  soon  he  ran  away. 

He  with  a  scouting-party 

Went  down  to  Tarry  town, 
Where  he  met  a  British  officer, 

A  man  of  high  renown ; 
Who  says  unto  these  gentlemen, 

"  You're  of  the  British  cheer, 
I  trust  that  you  can  tell  me 

If  there's  any  danger  near  ?  " 

Then  up  stept  this  young  hero, 

John  Paulding  was  his  name, 
'  Sir,  tell  us  where  you're  going. 

And,  also,  whence  you  came  ?  " 
'  I  bear  the  British  flag,  sir ; 

I've  a  pass  to  go  this  way, 


318  JOHN    PAULDING. 

I'm  on  an  expedition, 

And  have  no  time  to  stay." 

Then  round  him  came  this  company, 

And  bid  him  to  dismount ; 
"  Come,  tell  us  where  you're  going, 

Grive  us  a  strict  account ; 
For  we  are  now  resolved, 

That  you  shall  ne'er  pass  by." 
Upon  examination 

They  found  he  was  a  spy. 

He  begged  for  his  liberty, 

He  plead  for  his  discharge. 
And  oftentimes  he  told  them, 

If  they'd  set  him  at  large, 
"  Here's  all  the  gold  and  silver 

I  have  laid  up  in  store, 
But  when  I  reach  the  city, 

I'll  give  you  ten  times  more." 

"  I  want  not  the  gold  and  silver 
You  have  laid  up  in  store, 
And  when  you  get  to  New  York, 
You  need  not  send  us  more ; 


JOHN    PAULDING.        ^ 

But  you  may  take  your  sword  in  hand 

To  gain  your  liberty 
And  if  that  you  do  conquer  me 

0,  then  you  shall  be  free." 

"  The  time  it  is  improper 

Our  valor  for  to  try, 
For  if  we  take  our  swords  in  hand, 

Then  one  of  us  must  die ; 
I  am  a  man  of  honor, 

With  courage  true  and  bold, 
And  I  fear  not  the  man  of  clay, 

Although  he's  cloth'd  in  gold." 

He  saw  that  his  conspiracy 

Would  soon  be  brought  to  light ; 
He  begg'd  for  pen  and  paper, 

And  asked  leave  to  write 
A  line  to  General  Arnold, 

To  let  him  know  his  fate, 
And  beg  for  his  assistance ; 

But  now  it  was  too  late. 


319 


320  •        JOHN    PAULDING. 

When  the  news  it  came  to  Arnold, 

It  put  him  in  a  fret ; 
He  walk'd  the  room  in  trouble, 

Till  tears  his  cheek  did  wet ; 
The  story  soon  went  through'  the  camp, 

And  also  through  the  fort ; 
And  he  called  for  the  Vulture 

And  sailed  for  New  York. 

Now  Arnold  to  New  York  is  gone, 

A-fighting  for  his  king, 
And  left  poor  Major  Andre 

On  the  gallows  for  to  swing ; 
When  he  was  executed, 

He  looked  both  meek  and  mild ; 
He  look'd  upon  the  people, 

And  pleasantly  he  smil'd. 

It  mov'd  each  eye  with  pity, 
Caus'd  every  heart  to  bleed. 

And  every  one  wish'd  him  releas'd 
And  Arnold  in  his  stead. 


I 


JOHN    PAULDING.  321 

He  was  a  man  of  honor, 

In  Britain  he  was  born ; 
To  die  upon  the  gallows 

Most  highly  he  did  scorn.    / 

A  bumper  to  John  Paulding  ! 

Now  let  your  voices  sound, 
Fill  up  your  flowing  glasses, 

And  drink  his  health  around  ; 
Also  to  those  young  gentlemen 

Who  bore  him  company  ; 
Success  to  North  America, 

Ye  sous  of  liberty  ! 


^tx^mt  €\mp. 


1780. 

The  adventure  of  this  gallant  oflBcer,  commemorated  in  the  sub- 
joined ballad,  is  connected  with  the  conspiracy  of  Arnold.  The 
authorship  of  the  song  is  unknown,  as  is  the  case  of  very  many  of 
the  finest  productions  of  the  Revolutionary  period.  It  was  adapted 
to  the  air  of  "  Barbara  Allen,"  and  sung  very  generally,  at  home 
and  in  the  camp,  during  the  last  years  of  the  Revolution. 

SERGEANT  CHAMPE.' 

Come  sheathe  your  swords !  my  gallant  boys, 

And  listen  to  the  story,^ 
How  Sergeant  Champe,  one  gloomy  night, 

Set  o9"  to  catch  the  tory. 

You  see  the  general  had  got  mad, 

To  think  his  plans  were  thwarted, 

And  swore  by  all,  both  good  and  bad, 
That  Arnold  should  be  carted. 


SERGEANT    CHAMPE. 

So  unto  Lee  he  sent  a  line. 

And  told  him  all  his  sorrow, 
And  said  that  he  must  start  the  hunt, 

Before  the  coming  morrow. 

Lee  found  a  sergeant  in  his  camp, 
Made  up  of  bone  and  muscle. 

Who  ne'er  knew  fear,  and  many  a  year 
With  tories  had  a  tussle. 

Bold  Champe,  when  mounted  on  old  Rip, 
All  button'd  up  from  weather. 

Sang  out,  '^  good  bye  !  "  crack'd  ofi*  his  whip, 
And  soon  was  in  the  heather. 

He  gallop'd  on  towards  Paulus  Hook, 

Improving  every  instant — 
Until  a  patrol,  wide  awake, 

Descried  him  in  the  distance. 

On  coming  up,  the  guard  call'd  out 
And  ask'd  him  where  he's  going — 

To  which  he  answer'd  with  his  spur, 
And  left  him  in  the  mowing. 


324  SERGEANT    CHAMPE. 

The  bushes  pass'd  him  like  the  wind, 
And  pebbles  flew  asunder. 

The  guard  was  left  far,  far  behind, 
All  mix'd  with  mud  and  wonder. 

Lee's  troops  paraded,  all  alive, 

Although  'twas  one  the  morning, 

And  counting  o'er  a  dozen  or  more, 
One  sergeant  is  found  wanting, 

A  little  hero,"  full  of  spunk, 

But  not  so  full  of  judgment, 

Press'd  Major  Lee  to  let  him  go. 

With  the  bravest  of  his  reg'ment. 

Lee  summon' d  cornet  Middleton, 
Expressed  what  was  urgent, 

And  gave  him  orders  how  to  go 

To  catch  the  rambling  sergeant. 

Then  forty  troopers,  more  or  less, 
Set  off  across  the  meader ; 

'Bout  thirty-nine  went  jogging  on 
A-foUowing  their  leader. 


SERGEANT    CHAMPE.  325 

At  early  morn,  adown  a  hill 

They  saw  the  sergeant  sliding ; 
So  fast  he  went,  it  was  not  ken't, 

Whether  he's  rode,  or  riding. 

None  looked  back,  but  on  they  spnrr'd, 

A-gaining  every  minute. 
To  see  them  go,  'twould  done  you  good, 
You'd  thought  old  Satan  in  it. 

The  sergeant  miss'd  'em,  by  good  luck, 

And  took  another  tracing, 
He  turn'd  his  horse  from  Paulus  Hook, 

Elizabethtown  facing. 

It  was  the  custom  of  Sir  Hal 

To  send  his  galleys  cruising, 
And  so  it  happened  just  then. 

That  two  were  at  Van  Deusen's. 

Strait  unto  these  the  sergeant  went, 

And  left  old  Rip,  all  standing, 
A  waiting  for  the  blown  cornet. 

At  Squire  Van  Deusen's  landing. 


326  SERGEANT    CHAMPE. 

The  troopers  didn't  gallop  home. 
But  rested  from  their  labors ; 

And  some  'tis  said  took  gingerbread 
And  cider  from  the  neighbors. 

'Twas  just  at  eve  the  troopers  reach'd 
The  camp  they  left  that  mornmg. 

Champe's  empty  saddle,  unto  Lee, 
Grave  an  unwelcome  warning. 


"  If  Champe  has  suffered,  'tis  my  fault ; 

So  thought  the  generous  major : 
"  T  would  not  have  his  garment  touch'd, 

For  millions  on  a  wager  !  " 

"  The  cornet  told  him  all  he  knew, 

Excepting  of  the  cider. 
The  troopers,  all,  spurr'd  very  well 

But  Champe  was  the  best  rider  ! " 

And  so  it  happen'd  that  brave  Champe 

Unto  Sir  Hal  deserted. 
Deceiving  him,  and  you,  and  me. 

And  into  York  was  flirted. 


SERGEANT    CHAMPE.  327 

He  saw  base  Arnold  in  his  camp, 

Surrounded  by  the  legion, 
And  told  him  of  the  recent  prank 

That  threw  him  in  that  region. 

Then  Arnold  grinn'd,  and  rubb'd  his  hands, 
And  e'enmost  chok'd  with  pleasure, 

Not  thinking  Champe  was  all  the  while 
A  "taking  of  his  measure." 

"  Come  now,"  says  he,  "  my  bold  soldier, 

As  you're  within  our  borders. 
Let's  drink  our  fill,  old  care  to  kill, 

To-morrow  you'll  have  orders." 

Full  soon  the  British  fleet  set  sail ! 

Say  !  wasn't  that  a  pity  ? 
For  thus  it  was  brave  Sergeant  Champe 

Was  taken  from  the  city. 

To  southern  climes  the  shipping  flew, 

And  anchored  in  Virginia, 
When  Champe  escaped  and  join'd  his  friends 

Among  the  picininni. 


328  SERGEANT    CHAMPE. 

Base  Arnold's  head,  by  luck,  was  sav'd. 

Poor  Andre  was  gibbeted, 
Arnold's  to  blame  for  Andre's  fame, 

And  Andre's  to  be  pitied. 

^  Sergeant  John  Champe  was  "  a  native  of  Loudon  county,  in 
Virginia,  rather  above  the  ordinary  size,  full  of  physical  power,  "with 
a  countenance  grave  and  thoughtful "  He  enlisted  in  the  Conti- 
nental army  at  the  age  of  nineteen,  where  he  served  with  honor  to 
himself  and  the  corps  to  which  he  belonged.  He  was  honorably 
discharged  from  service,  by  Gen.  Washington,  on  the  conclusion  of 
his  hazardous  adventure,  lest  he  might  be  taken  by  the  enemy  and 
hung  ;  and  soon  after  retired  to  his  home  in  Loudon  county.  In 
1798  he  removed  to  Kentucky,  where  he  remained  until  the  time 
of  liis  death. 

^  Arid  lisfen  to  the  story.  General  Washington,  on  his  return  to 
the  army,  immediately  sent  for  Major  Lee.  This  officer,  on  repair- 
ing to  head-quarters,  found  the  general  alone  in  his  marquee  busily 
engaged  in  writing.  As  soon  as  he  entered,  a  bundle  of  papers  was 
laid  before  him  for  perusal,  in  which  he  found  much  information 
tending  to  prove  that  Arnold  was  not  alone  in  the  conspiracy,  but 
that  among  others,  a  major-general,  whose  name  was  not  concealed, 
was  as  guilty  as  Arnold  himself  It  was  for  the  purpose  of  forming 
a  plan  to  ascertain  the  truth  of  these  suggestions,  as  well  as  for  the 
captm-e  of  Arnold,  that  Washington  had  summoned  Lee,  and  the 
project  was  known  to  them  alone.  "  It  is  my  desire,"  said  Wash- 
ington, "  to  probe  to  the  bottom  the  intelligence  contained  in  the 
papers  you  have  just  read  ;  to  seize  Arnold,  and  by  securing  him, 
to  render  it  possible  for  me  to  restore  the  amiable  and  unfortunate 
Andre  to  his  friends.  Have  you,  in  your  legion,  a  person  capable 
and  willing  to  undertake  a  delicate  and  dangerous  project  ?  Who- 
ever comes  forward,  will  lay  me  under  great  personal  obligations,  and 
in  behalf  of  the  nation  I  will  reward  him.'"     Lee  suggested  a  ser- 


SERGEANT    CHAMPE. 

geant  of  the  caValiy  as  one  in  all  respects  qualified  for  the  adven- 
turous scheme,,  "  being  a  man  of  tried  courage  and  inflexible  per- 
severance, and  as  likely  to  reject  an  overture  coupled  with  ignominy 
as  any  ofiicer  in  the  corps."  The  general  was  delighted  to  find  that 
a  non-commissioned  ofiicer  was  capable  of  carrjang  out  his  views, 
and  Lee  returned  to  camp  with  his  instructions  to  confer  with 
Champe,  as  it  was  the  design  he  should  set  off  that  night.  After  a 
long  consultation,  Champe  was  prevailed  upon  to  undertake  the 
enterprise.  The  instructions  were  read  to  him,  and  from  them  he 
prepared  notes  so  disguised  as  to  be  understood  only  by  himself. 
Arnold  was  upon  no  account  to  be  injured,  but  to  be  allowed  to 
escape  rather  than  to  be  killed  in  preventing  such  an  event.  It  was 
the  desire  of  Washington  to  make  a  public  example  of  him. 

No  time  was  lost.  Champe  immediately  prepared  himself  and  his 
horse  for  the  journey,  and  a  little  before  midnight,  mounted  to  pur- 
sue his  way  to  Paulus  Hook.  Within  half  an  hour  Captain  Carnes, 
officer  of  the  day,  repaired  to  the  quarters  of  Major  Lee,  and  told 
him  that  the  guard  had  fallen  in  with  a  dragoon,  who,  upon  being 
questioned,  put  spurs  to  his  horse  and  escaped ;  at  the  same  time 
requesting  orders  for  the  pursuit.  The  major,  who  had  assured 
Champe,  that,  in  the  event  of  his  desertion  being  discovered  before 
morning,  he  Avould  delay  the  pursuit  as  long  as  possible,  tried  every 
device  to  accomplish  it.  He  complained  of  the  disturbance  of  his 
sleep,  and  suggested  the  probability  of  its  being  a  countryman  on 
his  way  home,  or  some  soldier  gone  out  on  a  tour  of  personal  plea- 
sure. Captain  Carnes  then  returned  to  his  quarters,  paraded  the 
troops  and  found  one  sergeant  missing,  of  which  he  hastily  informed 
Major  Lee.  Some  delay  was  occasioned  by  these  movements. 
Champe  had  been  gone  but  an  hour,  when  the  troopers,  under  the 
command  of  a  cornet,  set  off  on  the  chase.  A  shower  of  rain  had 
fallen  soon  after  the  sergeant's  departure,  which  enabled  the  dragoons 
to  take  his  trail.  On  they  spurred,  stopping  occasionally  during  the 
darkness  of  the  night,  to  examine  the  foot-prints  of  the  fugitive's 
horse.*     When  morning  broke,  no  longer  forced  to  halt,  they  passed 

*  The  shoos  of  the  horses  Avere  all   made  in  the  same  form ;    which,  with  a 


330  SERGEANT    CHAMPE. 


Du  rapidly.  Ascending  the  summit  of  a  liill,  a  few  miles  north  of 
the  village  of  Bergen,  they  descried  Champe,  not  more  than  half  a 
mile  in  front.  He  at  the  same  time  discovering  them,  put  spurs  to 
his  horse,  determined  they  should  not  overtake  him.  The  cornet 
now  put  his  horses  to  the  top  of  their  speed,  and  recollecting  a  short 
route  through  the  woods,  sent  a  party  off  that  way,  to  intercept  the 
road  at  a  bridge  below  Bergen,  while  he  with  the  remainder  followed 
Champe.  Being  so  closely  pursued,  Champe  relinquished  his  inten- 
tion of  going  to  Paulus  Hook,  and  sought  refuge  in  some  British 
gallej's,  that  had  for  a  long  time  occupied  a  station  a  few  mUes  west 
of  Bergen.  On  his  entering  the  village  he  disguised  his  track  by 
taking  the  beaten  streets,  and  after  passing  through  it,  took  the  road 
leading  to  Elizabethtown.  Meanwhile  the  comet's  party  had  reached 
the  bridge,  and  found,  with  sore  disappointment,  the  sergeant  had 
slipped  through  their  fingers,  lietuming  up  the  road,  they  inquired 
whether  a  dragoon  had  been  seen  in  the  village,  but  could  get  no 
intelligence  as  to  the  road  he  had  taken.  The  troops  soon  spread 
over  the  village,  and  in  a  short  time  again  struck  the  trail.  The 
chase  was  renewed  with  greater  vigor,  and  Champe  was  soon  dis- 
covered. He,  apprehending  the  event,  had  prepared  himself  for  it, 
as  he  now  had  come  abreast  the  galleys.  Leaving  his  horse,  and 
lashing  his  valise  to  his  shoulders,  he  threw  himself  into  the  river 
and  called  out  to  the  galleys  for  aid.  This  was  quickly  given.  The 
British  fired  on  the  cornet's  party,  and  sent  a  boat  to  meet  Champe, 
who  was  taken  on  board  and  conveyed  to  New  York,  with  a  letter 
from  the  captain  relatmg  the  facts  of  the  case.  The  cornet  returned 
to  camp  in  the  afternoon,  when  the  soldiers,  seeing  the  sergeant's 
horse  in  his  possession,  exclaimed,  "  The  scoundrel  is  kUled  and  the 
honor  of  our  corps  vindicated." 

When  Champe  arrived  at  New  York,  he  dehvered  the  letter  from 
the  captain  of  the  galley  to  the  commandant,  and  was  soon  sent  to 


private  mark  annexed  to  the  fore  shoe,  and  known  to  the  troopere,  pointed  out 
the  trail  of  the  dragoons  to  each  other,  which  was  often  very  useful. 

Lee's  Memoirs. 


SERGEANT    CHAMPE.  331 


Sir  Henry  Clinton.  He  detained  him  more  than  an  hour,  question- 
ing him  in  reference  to  the  state  of  the  army  since  the  desertion  of 
Arnold,  the  probable  fate  of  Andre,  and  the  popularity  of  Wash- 
ington, all  of  which  he  answered  warily.  Placing  two  guineas  in 
his  hand,  he  advised  Champe  to  visit  Arnold.  On  seeing  him,  the 
traitor  expressed  great  satisfaction,  and  pressed  him  to  join  a  new 
legion  he  was  raising.  After  some  delay,  Champe  enlisted,  for  the 
purpose  of  securing  the  freedom  of  Arnold's  house,  which  would 
further  the  plans  of  taking  him  when  the  time  should  arrive. 

He  now  turned  his  attention  to  the  delivery  of  letters  he  had 
brought,  to  the  agents  of  Washington.  On  the  following  night  he 
delivered  one,  but  it  was  not  until  five  days  after  he  saw  the  person 
to  whom  the  other  was  addressed,  and  who  was  to  aid  him  in  the 
capture  of  Arnold.  While  these  things  were  transpiring,  Andre  was 
hung.  Nothing  now  remained  but  to  seize  and  deHver  Arnol  1  safely 
to  Major  Lee,  who  at  an  appointed  time,  was  to  be  ready  on  the 
Jersey  shore  to  receive  him.  Champe,  from  his  enlistment,  had 
every  opportunity  to  notice  the  habits  of  Arnold.  He  discovered  it 
was  his  custom  to  visit  the  garden  on  his  return  home  every  night. 
During  this  visit  he  was  to  be  seized,  gagged  and  carried  into  an 
adjoining  alley,  where  Champe's  fi-iends  were  to  receive  and  bear 
him  to  a  boat  in  the  North  river. 

On  the  night  appointed.  Major  Lee  left  camp,  wath  a  body  of 
cavalry  and  three  led  horses,  one  for  Arnold,  one  for  Champe,  and  a 
third  for  his  friend  ;  never  doubting  the  success  of  the  adventure. 
The  party  reached  Hoboken  about  midnight,  and  concealed  them- 
selves in  an  adjoining  wood.  Lee,  with  three  dragoons,  went  down 
to  the  bank  of  the  river.  The  night  passed  away,  and  no  boat  ap- 
proached, when  Lee  returned  to  camp,  much  chagrined  and  disap- 
pointed at  the  issue  of  the  project. 

Soon  after,  Lee  received  a  letter  from  the  friend  of  Champe,  in- 
forming him  that  on  the  very  night  appointed  for  the  execution  of 
the  plot,  Arnold  had  removed  his  quarters  to  another  part  of  the 
town,  to  superintend  the  embarkation  of  troops,  and  the  corps  to 
which  Champe  belonged  had  already  gone  on  board  the  transports. 


332  SERGEANT    CHaMPE. 

Thus  it  happened  that  Sergeant  Champe,  instearl  of  crossing  the 
Hudson  with  his  prisoner,  was  quietly  placed  on  board  a  British 
transport,  which  he  never  departed  from  until  the  troops  under 
Arnold  landed  in  Virginia. 

On  the  junction  with  Cornwallis,  Champe  deserted,  passing  into 
North  Carolina  and  keeping  within  the  friendly  districts  of  that 
State,  safely  joined  the  American  army,  near  the  Congaree  river. 
His  old  comrades  were  surprised  to  see  a  deserter  so  affectionately 
received  by  Major  Lee,  but  after  his  story  was  told,  cheer  upon 
cheer  went  up  for  "  the  intrepid  and  gallant  sergeant." 

Zee's  Memoirs. 

^  A  little  hero.  This  was  Capt.  Games,  officer  of  the  day,  who 
communicated  the  fact  of  Champe's  desertion  to  Major  Lee. 


n 

[/  1780 


Tliis  "  adcjress  to  the  vile  traitor  "  was  published  in  the  Pennsyl- 
vania Packet,  October  24th,  1780. 

TO  THE  TRAITOR  ARNOLD. 

Arnold  !  thy  name,  as  heretofore, 
Shall  now  be  Benedict  no  more ; 
Since,  instigated  by  the  devil, 
Thy  ways  are  turn'd  from  good  to  evil. 

'Tis  fit  we  brand  thee  with  a  name, 
To  suit  thy  infamy  and  shame ; 
And  since  of  treason  thou'rt  convicted, 
Thy  name  should  now  be  maledicted. 


I. 


334  ARNOLD 

Unless  by  way  of  contradiction, 
We  style  thee  Britain's  Benediction ; 
Such  blessings  she,  with  liberal  hand, 
Confers  on  this  devoted  land. 

For  instance,  only  let  us  mention, 
Some  proofs  of  her  benign  intention ; 
The  slaves  she  sends  us  o'er  the  deep, 
The  bribes  to  cut  our  throats  in  sleep. 
To  take  our  lives  and  scalps  away. 
The  savage  Indians  keeps  in  pay. 
And  Tories  worse,  by  half,  than  they. 

Then  in  this  class  of  Britain's  heroes. 
The  Tories,  savage  Indians,  Negroes, 
Recorded,  Arnold's  name  shall  stand. 
While  Freedom's  blessings  crown  our  land. 
And  odious  for  the  blackest  crimes, 
Arnold  shall  stink  to  latest  times. 


1780. 


The  success  of  the  Americans  at  King's  Mountain/  over  the 
forces  of  Ferguson  and  Depuyster,  has  been  the  subject  of  nume- 
rous ballads.  The  one  subjoined  was  -wTitten  a  short  time  after 
the  action,  and  published  on  a  small  sheet,  the  following  year. 

BATTLE  OF  KING'S   MOUNTAIN.^ 

'TwAS  on  a  pleasant  mountain 

The  Tory  heathens  lay ; 
With  a  doughty  major  at  their  head, 

One  Ferguson  they  say. 

Cornwallis  had  detach'd  him, 

A  thieving  for  to  go, 
And  catch  the  Carolina  men, 

Or  bring  the  rebels  low. 


The  scamp  had  rang'd  the  country 

In  search  of  royal  aid, 
And  with  his  owls,  perched  on  high, 

He  taught  them  all  his  trade. 

But  ah  !  that  fatal  morning, 

When  Shelby  brave  drew  near  ! 

'Tis  certainly  a  warning 

That  ministers  should  hear. 

And  Campbell,  and  Cleveland, 

And  Colonel  Sevier, 
Each  with  a  band  of  gallant  men. 

To  Ferguson  appear. 

Just  as  the  sun  was  setting 
Behind  the  western  liills, 

Just  then  our  trusty  rifles  sent 
A  dose  of  leaden  pills. 

Up,  up  the  steep  together 

Brave  Williams  led  his  troop. 

And  join'd  by  Winston,  bold  and  true, 
Disturb'd  the  Tory  coop. 


337 


The  royal  slaves,  the  royal  owls, 

Flew  high  on  every  hand  ; 
But  soon  they  settled — gave  a  howl, 

And  quarter'd  to  Cleveland, 

I  would  not  tell  the  number 

Of  Tories  slain  that  day, 
But  surely  it  is  certain 

That  none  did  run  away. 

For  all  that  were  a  living, 

Were  happy  to  give  up ; 
So  let  us  make  thanksgiving, 

And  pass  the  bright  tin-cup. 

To  all  the  brave  regiments, 

Let's  toast  'em  for  their  health, 

And  may  our  good  country 

Have  quietude  and  wealth. 

*  King's  ^fountain  is  situated  near  the  Cherokee  Ford,  in  the  north- 
em  part  of  South  Carolina.  The  battle  ground  is  about  one  mile 
and  a  half  south  of  the  South  Carolina  line. 

^  Battle  of  King's  Mountain.  The  following  brilliant  account  of 
this  action  is  taken  from  the  oration  of  the  Hon.  J.  T.  Preston,  de- 
livered at  the  battle  ground,  on  the  4th  of  October,  1855,  The  bat- 
15 


388  KING  S    MOUNTAIN. 

tie  was  fought  on  the  7th  of  Octoher,  1780.  "At  twelve  o'clock, 
the  sky  cleared,"  when  the  patriot  army  "  found  themselves  within 
three  miles  of  Ferguson's  camp,  on  King's  Mountain.  They  halted, 
under  an  order  passed  rapidly  along  the  line — an  order,  perhaps,  the 
most  laconic  and  appropriate  ever  given  under  the  like  circum- 
stances.    It  was  in  those  words : 

"  '  TYe  up  overcoats,  pick  touch-holes,  fresh  prime,  and  he  ready  to 
fight:- 

"  The  officers  here  determined  to  divide  their  force,  and  to  sur- 
round the  momataiu.  At  this  moment,  an  express  from  Ferguson  to 
Coruwallis  was  arrested,  his  despatches  opened,  and  read  aloud  at  the 
head  of  the  line.  In  them,  he  said,  '  I  hold  a  position  on  the  King's 
IMouutain  that  all  the  rebels  out  of  hell  cannot  drive  me  from.' 
There  was  no  shout  or  disorder  when  this  was  read ;  but  a  quiet 
grim  smile  passed  along  the  line  as  they  struck  into  a  double  gal- 
lop. In  twenty  minutes,  they  were  in  sight  of  the  British  camp. 
They  drew  up  along  the  bank  of  that  little  brook  ;  they  dismounted 
and  tied  their  horses  to  the  limbs  of  ths  trees,  leaving  them  in  charge 
of  a  small  gui.rd.  '1  he  order  of  attack  was  hurriedly  made,  but  with 
a  military  skill  and  discretion  that  could  not  be  excelled.  There 
was  not  an  error  or  mistake,  or  even  a  miscalculation  of  marching 
time  from  the  outset  t )  the  end.  Each  column  advanced  rapidly 
along  the  indicated  line,  all  the  lines  tending  to  a  common  centre, 
which  was  the  British  encampment  at  the  summit  of  the  ridge. 
There  began  a  scattering  fire,  for  eight  or  ten  minutes,  on  the  centre 
column  of  the  Americans.  The  patriots  moved  steadily  until 
Sevier's  column,  on  the  right,  passed  out  of  the  valley  in  full 
sight  of  the  enemy.  Ihe  fire  then  began  in  earnest  on  both 
sides.  The  mountaineers  proved  their  skill  with  most  deadly 
effect,  forcing  Ferguson,  at  the  very  beginning,  to  resort  to  a  direct 
charge.  1  his  charge  Avas  headed  by  a  company  of  British  regulars, 
and  Avas  worthy  the  high  name  and  fame  of  that  service.  It  was 
boldly  and  gallantly  done,  and  forced  the  patriots  to  give  back  down 
the  hill ;  but  at  that  moment  Cleaveland  and  Williams  appeared  on 
the  left,  and  poured  into  the  charging  columns  such  an  awful    ire  as 


king's  mountain.  339 


to  stop  them  before  Sevier  was  routed.  The  Britisli  turned  from 
charging  on  Sevier,  and  wheeling,  made  a  teiTible  dash  at  Cleave- 
land  and  Williams  on  the  left,  and  with  like  effect,  driving  them 
hack  dov  .  ihe  ridge.  Se^der,  however,  rallied  instantl}--,  and  at  the 
same  ti^-  e  Shelby  and  Campbell  appeared  with  the  centre  column, 
rising  in  front  along  the  ridge.  These  two  columns,  the  centre  and 
left,  then  poured  their  fire  on  both  flanks  of  the  British,  and  stopped 
the  charge  against  Cleaveland  and  Williams.  Wheeling  rapidly 
and  receiving  reinforcements  from  within  the  lines,  the  British  then 
made  a  third  charge  directly  against  the  centre  column,  and  that 
irresistible  British  bayonet  again  told  its  story,  and  Campbell  and 
Shelby  were  forced  back,  down  nearly  to  the  valley.  But  Cleave- 
land and  Wilhams  having  rallied  their  columns,  and  Sevier's  con- 
tinuing to  pour  its  fire  in  from  the  left,  the  British  were  forced  to 
leave  the  pursuit  of  Campbell  and  Shelby,  turned  suddenly,  and 
themselves  retreated  up  the  ridge.  Shelby  and  Campbell,  hearing 
this  tremendous  fire  on  both  flanks,  finding  the  British  were  retreat- 
ing, supposed  they  were  defeated,  rallied  instantly,  and  turned  in 
pursuit  of  them  with  hurrahs  of  victory.  The  British  turned  imme- 
diately, and  attempted  a  fourth  charge.  It,  however,  was  then  too 
late — the  blood  of  the  mountaineers  was  hot ;  they  met  and  repulsed 
that  charge,  and  drove  the  British  back  within  their  lines.  This 
enabled  the  three  columns  of  the  patriots  to  meet,  and  literally  sur- 
round the  army  of  Ferguson.  Then  came  the  fierce  rage  of  the 
battle  ;  a  circle  of  fire  hemmed  the  wolf  in  his  stronghold.  The 
English  soldiers  proved  their  breeding  in  this  hour  of  danger  and 
despair.  The  regulars  with  their  bayonets,  and  the  Tories  with 
their  butcher-knives  fastened  to  the  muzzles  of  their  guns,  charged 
on  this  closing  flame  with  the  fierce  energy  of  despair.  In  vain  ! 
The  mountain  hunters,  calmly  but  rapidly  loading,  and  deliberately 
aiming,  each  at  his  mark,  sent  a  death  messenger  in  every  bullet. 
At  every  discharge,  they  advanced  a  few  steps,  until  there  was  one 
narrowing  circle  of  flashing  flame  crackling  around  their  devoted 
victims.  At  this  moment,  the  British  cavalry  were  ordered  to  mount. 
'J'he  order  was  heard  bv  the  Americans.     It  was  the  very  thing  for 


340 


their  rifles,  giving  a  clear  mark  above  the  bushes ;  and  as  each  man 
threw  his  leg  over  his  horse,  he  fell  dead  on  the  other  side.  Fergu- 
son, vrith  a  gallantry  that  seemed  to  rise  with  his  desperate  condi- 
tion, rode  from  rank  to  rank,  and  from  post  to  post,  encouraging, 
cheering,  and  driving  his  men.  At  length,  he  found  his  army 
pressed,  and  actually  huddled  together  near  the  summit  of  the  moun- 
tain, and  falling  as  fast  as  the  Americans  could  load  and  shoot.  He 
determined  on  one  more  charge,  and,  taking  his  position  at  the 
head  of  his  cavalry,  and  with  a  voice  that  was  heard  loud  above  the 
roar  of  battle,  summoned  his  men  to  '  crush  the  damned  rebels  into 
the  earth.'  There  was  a  pause  for  a  moment,  and  one  round  of  the 
Americans  was  stopped  Instead  of  the  roar  of  their  rifles,  there 
was  heard  only  the  click  of  the  lock — it  was  the  serpent's  low  warn- 
ing of  coming  death.  1  he  pause  was  but  for  a  moment,  when  Fer- 
guson and  Dupoistre,  horse  and  foot,  burst  like  an  avalanche  do\vn 
the  mountain's  side.  Before  they  came  within  sixty  paces  of  the 
American  line,  every  rifle  was  loaded  and  under  deadly  aim.  Fer- 
guson was  in  front,  and  fell  at  the  first  discharge,  with  seven  mortal 
wounds.  The  patriots  rushed  forward  to  meet  the  shock  as  Du- 
poistre's  regulars,  with  set  bayonets  and  sabres  in  rest,  came  crush- 
ing down  upon  them.  Not  Agincourt  nor  Cressy,  with  all  their 
chivalry,  ever  felt  a  shock  more  fearful  than  that;  but  had  the 
heavens  rained  British  bayonets,  it  would  not  have  stopped  these 
patriots.  The  destinies  of  America,  perhaps  of  mankind,  depended 
on  their  muscle.  Like  martyrs,  they  went  to  the  death — Hke  Hans 
they  rushed  to  the  carnage.  Officer  and  soldier,  with  blood-shot 
eyes  and  parched  tongues,  bounded  upon  the  huddling  enemy  until 
their  fierce  glare  and  hot  breath  could  be  seen  and  felt  by  the  cra- 
ven Tory  and  his  bull-dog  master ;  and  at  the  moment  they  were 
crouching  together  for  the  last  spring,  a  wild,  terrrr-stricken  shriek 
rose  above  the  battle — a  yell  for  quarter.  A  white  flag  was  nui 
up,  arms  thrown  down,  and  God's  champions  shouted,  'Victory'. 
Liberty  ! '  That  shout  echoed  from  the  mountain  to  the  sea,  and 
far  along  the  shore  to  where  the  majestic  Washington  sat  abiiost 
Aveeping  over  the  s  id  horror>  of  the  Sviuth.     His  great  heart  leaped 


341 


with  prophetic  joy  as  this  beam  of  hope  came  borne  on  the  triumph- 
ant voice  of  his  beloved  and  trusted  men  of '  West  Augusta ; '  for 
the  men  who  sent  that  shout  were  the  very  men  of  whom  Washing- 
ton said  he  would  '  trust  to  them  to  maintain  American  liberty  after 
all  else  had  failed '  He  knew  the  mountain  was  the  birthplace, 
but  never  the  grave,  of  liberty.  One  hour  sufficed  for  this  crowning 
scene  in  the  swelling  drama  of  our  Revolutionary  struggle,  acted  by 
rude  men  from  beyond  '  unknown  mountains.'  Not  one  of  the 
enemy  escaped.  The  force  of  Ferguson  amounted  to  something 
over  eleven  hundi'ed  men,  and  of  these  two  hundred  and  forty  were 
killed,  and  two  hundred  wounded — a  strange  proportion,  telling  the 
fatal  story  of  that  long  small  bore  rifle.  Over  seven  hundred  were 
taken  prisoners,  with  aU  their  arms,  ammunition,  and  equipments. 
It  was  a  total  defeat,  and  a  capture  of  nearly  a  quarter  of  Comwal- 
lis's  army.** 


|[^to  %mfs  1^5. 


1781. 

This  production  was  written  in  America,  and  published  in  a  mu- 
sic sheet,  entitled  "  New  Year's  Day,  1781,  to  the  tune  "  Get  you 
gone,  raw  head  and  bloody  bones."  It  also  appeared  in  the  anti-miu- 
isterial  English  and  American  newspapers  of  the  time. 

NEW  YEAR'S  DAY. 

Oh  !  old  England,  old  England ; 

And  oh !  the  New  Year's  day  ; 
Such  a  new  year  as  this 

A  blind  man  would  gladly  see. 
How  we  go  up,  up,  up,  &c. 

Now  we  are  at  a  dead  stop, 

And  so  we  sink  deeper  and  deeper  , 

Little  Georgey's  as  sound  as  a  top, 

And  his  Primy's  an  excellent  sleeper. 


343 


Oh  !  the  navy,  the  navy, 

Of  Britain  the  safety  and  boast ; 
Lord  Twitcher  has  kept  it  so  safely, 

Our  foes  on  the  seas  rule  the  roast. 

Here's  an  inferior  fleet. 

With  an  admiral  wrapt  up  in  flannel ; 
By  which  we're  insulted  abroad. 

And  with  which  we  sneak  into  the  channel 

But  oh !  how  we  hurried  and  scurried, 
Our  cowardly  enemies  scorning ; 

There  we  run  away  over  night. 

And  there  we  waited  till  morning. 

Parliaments  squabble  and  gabble, 

Ministers  wonder  and  stare  ; 
Armies  march  backwards  and  forwards, 

Americans  stand  as  they  were. 

But  oh  !  how  bloody  and  stout, 

Struts  the  commander-in-chief; 
He's  as  sharp  as  a  snipe  at  the  snout. 

And  lacks  nothing  but  wisdom  and  beef. 


344 


This  lord  bids  him  go  up, 

That  lord  makes  him  run  down, 

T'other  drives  him  first  backwards  and  forwards, 

And  a  fourth  makes  him  skip  and  turn  round. 

With  such  mighty  armies  and  fleets, 

With  commanders  and  ministers  true  ; 

We  bully  all  kingdoms  and  states, 

Tho'  to  beat  one  we  cannot  tell  how. 
But  so  we  go  up,  up,  up,  &c. 

As  for  our  credit  and  wealth. 

The  pride  and  the  strength  of  John  Bull ; 
The  nation's  as  poor  as  myself, 

Tho'  Lord  North  swears  his  budget's  quite  full. 
So  we  go  up,  Tip,  up,  &c. 

Oh !  for  a  gibbet  and  block. 

Oh  !  for  a  hatchet  and  cleaver ; 
How  well  would  a  home-hit  stroke. 
Prove  a  just  and  a  kind  reliever. 
Then  would  old  England  go  up. 
Instead  of  going  down,  down-a ; 
We're  tired  of  backwards  and  forwards, 
'Tis  time  that  things  were  turn'd  round-a. 


345 


Then  would  we  lop  'em  and  crop  'em, 
Bring  traitors  at  once  to  a  level ; 

The  junta  should  lead  up  the  dance, 

And  the  others  the  way  to  the  devil. 

Then  would  old  England  go  up,  &c. 

At  court  we  make  snuffers  and  buttons, 

Great  folks  must  have  something  to  do ; 

Bully  Bagshot  cures  drunkards  and  gluttons, 
The  king  gallops  from  Windsor  to  Kew. 
See  him  tit  up  a  tit  up,  &c. 

Oh !  religion,  religion, 

I  mean  to  be  seriously  grave. 
Archbishops  and  bishops  raise  papists, 

The  protestant  cause  for  to  save. 
So  we  go  up,  up,  up,  &c. 

See  Murray  and  Wedderburne  both, 

O'er  our  lives  and  our  fortunes  preside  ; 
And  its  lucky  for  England,  in  troth, 

No  such  lawyers  are  bred  south  of  Tweed. 
So  we  go  up,  up,  up,  &c. 
15* 


346 


So  we're  abolish'd,  demolisli'd, 

Yet  no  man  stands  up  for  his  right ; 
But,  my  friends,  while  the  kingdom's  on  fire, 
The  Scots  make  their  way  by  the  light. 
Then  help  old  England  up, 
And  knock  all  her  enemies  down, 
Let  us  join  as  all  Englishmen  ought, 
'Tis  time  that  things  were  turn'd  round. 


1781. 

THE  SOLDIER  AT  HOME. 

From  noise  of  camps  once  more  I  come, 
To  snatcli  from  care  a  short  repose  ; 

All  hail  thou  tranquil  much  lov'd  home, 
That  war  nor  dread  misfortune  knows. 

Thus,  far  remov'd  from  hostile  bands, 
May'st  thou  heart-pleasing  home  remain ; 

Curs'd  be  the  murderous  foreign  hands 
That  dare  with  blood  thy  bosom  stain. 


348  THE    SOLDIER    AT    HOME. 

Oh  haste,  ye  generous  few  I  love, 
Again  in  social  converse  join ; 

With  me  the  sweets  of  friendship  prove, 
And  to  the  winds  your  cares  resign. 

But  oh  !  to  recollect  how  soon 

The  period  comes  that  bids  me  hence ; 

A  sadd'ning  momentary  gloom 

Steals  half  my  joys,  and  clouds  my  sense. 

But  why  indulge  that  care-mix'd  thought  ? 

The  happy  day  may  yet  arrive, 
When  tyranny  shall  fall  to  nought. 

And  liberty  alone  survive. 

Then  with  my  friends  in  jocund  mood, 
I'll  tell  what  dangers  have  been  mine ; 

And  how  Americans  have  stood 
At  Germantown  and  Brandywine. 

Here  we'll  remember  martial  Gates, 

He  taught  the  proud  Burgoyne  to  yield ; 

Who  frowning  at  his  adverse  fates, 
Surrender'd  on  the  well  fought  field. 


I 


THE    SOLDIER    AT    HOME.  349 

Then  each  gay  friend  shall  swell  the  tale, 

With  hardy  deeds  of  bold  emprise ; 
Again  he  sees  our  arms  prevail, 

And  long-lost  ardors  now  arise. 

Here  Howe,  says  he,  (and  marks  the  track,) 
The  British  troops  did  proudly  form ; 

And  here  with  adverse  lines  compact. 
Brave  Washington  did  swell  the  storm. 

'Twas  here  I  was,  and  points  the  spot, 

(As  he  had  traced  on  the  ground,) 
What  bursts  of  thunder,  showers  of  shot, 

Yet  there  great  Washington  was  found. 

At  Monmouth's  plains,  where  Lee  retreated, 
Great  Washington  did  then  push  on ; 

Sir  Harry's  chosen. troops  defeated. 
Then  laugh 'd  his  tyranny  to  scorn. 

These  happy  days  are  yet  to  come, 

Then  why  repine  at  such  a  fate ; 
Bear  well  the  woe  that  is  your  doom, 

And  joy  can  never  come  too  late. 


§mtnt  m\  "^xMtm. 


1781. 

On  the  evening  of  the  twenty-first  of  July,  seventeen  hundred 
and  eighty-one,  a  party  of  Refugees  embarked  at  Lloyd's  Neck,  on 
Long  Island,  and  landed  on  the  Connecticut  shore  the  same  night. 
The  party  concealed  themselves  in  a  wood,  about  five  miles  from  the 
place  where  they  landed,  and  near  the  meeting-house  of  the  town 
of  Middlesex.  Here  they  lay  until  two  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  of 
the  next  day,  "  when  the  good  people  of  Middlesex  were  assembled, 
and  devoutly  praying  for  their  great  and  good  ally,  the  King  of 
France,  the  brave  party  surrounded  their  sanctuary,  and  took  from 
thence  fifty  notorious  rebels ;  their  reverend  teacher  at  their  head. 
Theu'  horses,  forty  in  number,  saddled  and  at  hand,  were  taken  care 
of  at  the  same  time.  The  whole  were  moved  in  the  most  expedi- 
tious manner  to  the  shore,  during  which  the  rebels,  in  the  vicinity  of 
Middlesex,  collected  and  harassed  the  soldiers  in  their  return,  not- 
withstanding which,  every  rebel  and  every  horse  captured  were 
safely  conducted  on  board  the  armed   vessels,   which  returned  to 


DESCENT     ON    MIDDLESEX.  351 

Lloyd's  that  night."  '  The  writer  of  this  ballad,  schoolmaster  St. 
John,  of  Norwalk,  was  one  of  the  persons  taken  by  this  party.  He 
composed  it  a  short  time  after  he  returned  to  his  home  from  the 
Provost  at  New  York. 

DESCENT  ON  MIDDLESEX. 

July  the  tweuty-second  day, 
The  precise  hour  I  will  not  say, 
In  seventeen  hundred  and  eighty-one, 
A  horrid  action  was  begun. 

While  to  the  Lord  they  sing  and  pray, 
The  Tories  who  in  ambush  lay ; 
Beset  the  house  with  brazen  face, 
At  Middlesex,  it  was  the  place. 

A  guard  was  plac'd  the  house  before, 
Likewise  behind  and  at  each  door ; 
Then  void  of  shame,  those  men  of  sin, 
The  sacred  temple  enter'd  in. 

The  reverend  Mather  ^  closed  his  book, 
How  did  the  congregation  look  ! 
Those  demons  plunder'd  all  they  could. 
Either  in  silver  or  in  gold. 


352  DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX. 

The  silver  buckles  which  we  use, 
Both  at  the  knees  and  on  the  shoes, 
These  caitiffs  took  them  in  their  rage, 
Had  no  respect  for  sex  or  age. 

As  they  were  searching  all  around, 
They  several  silver  watches  found  ; 
While  they  who're  plac'd  as  guards  without, 
Like  raging  devils  rang'd  about. 

Run  forty  horses  to  the  shore. 
Not  many  either  less  or  more  ; 
With  bridles,  saddles,  pillions  on. 
In  a  few  minutes  all  was  done. 

The  men  from  hence  they  took  away, 
Upon  that  awful  sacred  day. 
Was  forty-eight,  besides  two  more 
They  chanc'd  to  find  upon  the  shore. 

On  board  the  shipping  they  were  sent. 
Their  money  gone,  and  spirits  spent, 
And  greatly  fearing  their  sad  end. 
This  wicked  seizure  did  portend. 


DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX.  353 

They  hoisted  sail,  the  Sound  they  cross'd, 
And  near  Lloyd's  Neck  they  auchor'd  first ; 
'Twaa  here  the  Tories  felt  'twas  wrong, 
To  bring  so  many  men  along. 

Then  every  man  must  tell  his  name, 
A  list  they  took,  and  kept  the  same ; 
When  twenty-four  of  fifty  men 
Were  order'd  to  go  home  again. 

The  twenty-six  who  staid  behind, 
Most  cruelly  they  were  confin'd ; 
On  board  the  brig  were  order'd  quick, 
And  then  confin'd  beneath  the  deck. 

A  dismal  hole  with  filth  besmear'd. 
But  'twas  no  more  than  what  we  fear'd ; 
Sad  the  confinement,  dark  the  night. 
But  then  the  devil  thought  'twas  right. 

But  to  return  whence  I  left  off. 
They  at  our  misery  made  a  scoff; 
Like  raving  madmen  tore  about. 
Swearing  they'd  take  our  vitals  out. 


35*4  DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX. 

They  said  no  quarter  they  would  give, 
Nor  let  a  cursed  rebel  live ; 
But  would  their  joints  in  pieces  cut, 
Then  round  the  deck  like  turkeys  strut. 

July,  the  fourth  and  twentieth  day, 
We  all  marched  off  to  Oyster  Bay ; 
To  increase  our  pains  and  make  it  worse, 
They  iron'd  just  six  pair  of  us. 

But  as  they  wanted  just  one  pair 
An  iron  stirrup  lying  there. 
Was  taken  and  on  anvil  laid, 
On  which  they  with  a  hammer  paid. 

And  as  they  beat  it  inch  by  inch, 
It  bruis  d  their  wrists,  at  which  they  flinch  ; 
Those  wretched  caitiffs  standing  by. 
Would  laugh  to  hear  the  sufferers  cry. 

Although  to  call  them  not  by  name, 
From  Fairfield  county  many  came ; 
And  were  delighted  with  the  rout. 
To  see  the  rebels  kick'd  about. 


DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX.  355 

At  night  we  travell'd  in  the  rain, 
All  begg'd  for  shelter,  but  in  vain ; 
Though  almost  naked  to  the  skin, 
A  dismal  pickle  we  were  in. 

Then  to  the  half-way  house  we  came. 
The  "  Half-way  House  "  'tis  called  by  name, 
And  there  we  found  a  soul's  relief ; 
We  almost  miss'd  our  dreadful  grief. 

The  people  gen'rously  behav'd, 
Made  a  good  fire,  some  brandy  gave, 
Of  which  we  greatly  stood  in  need, 
As  we  were  wet  and  cold  indeed. 

But  ere  the  house  we  did  attain, 
"We  trembled  so  with  cold  and  rain, 
Our  irons  jingled — well  they  might — 
We  shiver'd  so  that  stormy  night. 

In  half  an  hour  or  thereabout, 
The  orders  were,  "  Come,  all  turn  out ! 
Ye  rebel  prisoners,  shabby  crew. 
To  loiter  thus  will  never  do." 


356  DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX. 

'Twas  now  about  the  break  of  day, 
When  all  were  forc'd  to  march  away; 
With  what  they  order'd  we  complied, 
Though  cold,  nor  yet  one  quarter  dried. 

We  made  a  halt  one  half  mile  short 
Of  what  is  term'd  Brucklyn's  fort ; 
Where  all  were  hurried  through  the  street 
Some  overtook  us,  some  we  met. 

We  now  traversing  the  parade. 
The  awful  figure  which  we  made, 
Caus'd  laughter,  mirth,  and  merriment, 
And  some  would  curse  us  as  we  went. 

Their  grandest  fort  was  now  hard  by  us, 
They  shew'd  us  that  to  terrify  us ; 
They  shew'd  us  all  their  bulwarks  there. 
To  let  be  known  how  strong  they  were. 

Just  then  the  Tory  drums  did  sound, 
And  pipes  rang  out  a  warlike  round ; 
Supposing  we  must  thence  conclude, 
That  Britain  ne'er  could  be  subdu'd. 


DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX.  357 

Up  to  the  guard-house  we  were  led, 
Where  each  receiv'd  a  crumb  of  bread ; 
Not  quite  one  mouthful,  I  believe. 
For  every  man  we  did  receive. 

In  boats,  the  ferry  soon  we  pass'd, 
And  at  New  York  arriv'd  at  last ; 
As  through  the  streets  we  pass'd  along, 
Ten  thousand  curses  round  us  rang. 

But  some  would  laugh,  and  some  would  sneer, 
And  some  would  grin,  and  others  leer ; 
A  mixed  mob,  a  medley  crew, 
I  guess  as  e'er  the  devil  knew. 

To  the  Provost  we  then  were  haul'd. 
Though  we  of  war  were  prisoners  call'd ; 
Our  irons  now  were  order'd  off, 
And  we  were  left  to  sneeze  and  cough. 

But  oh  !  what  company  we  found, 
With  great  surprise  we  look'd  around : 
I  must  conclude  that  in  that  place. 
We  found  the  worst  of  Adam's  race. 


358  DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX. 

Thieves,  murd'rers,  and  pickpockets  too, 
And  every  thing  that's  bad  they'd  do ; 
One  of  our  men  found  to  his  cost, 
Three  pounds,  York  money,  he  had  lost. 

They  pick'd  his  pocket  quite  before 
We  had  been  there  one  single  hour ; 
And  while  he  looked  o'er  and  o'er. 
The  vagrants  from  him  stole  some  more. 

We  soon  found  out,  but  thought  it  strange, 
We  never  were  to  be  exchang'd 
By  a  cartel,  but  for  some  men 
Whom  they  desir'd  to  have  again. 

A  pack  with  whom  they  well  agree, 
Who're  call'd  the  loyal  company, 
Or  "  Loyalists  Associated," 
As  by  themselves  incorporated. 

Our  food  was  call'd  two-thirds  in  weight 
Of  what  a  soldier  has  to  eat ; 
We  had  no  blankets  in  our  need. 
Till  a  kind  friend  did  intercede. 


DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX.  359 

Said  he,  "  The  prisoners  suffer  so, 
'Tis  quite  unkind  and  cruel  too ; 
I'm  sure  it  makes  my  heart  to  bleed, 
So  great  their  hardship  and  their  need." 

And  well  t»  us  was  the  event, 
Fine  blankets  soon  to  us  were  sent ; 
Small  the  allowance,  very  small, 
But  better  far  than  none  at  all. 

An  oaken  plank,  it  was  our  bed, 
An  oaken  pillow  for  the  head, 
Ard  room  as  scanty  as  our  meals, 
For  we  lay  crowded  head  and  heels. 

In  seven  days  or  thereabout, 
One  Jonas  Weed  was  taken  out. 
And  to  his  friends  he  was  resign'd. 
But  many  still  were  kept  behind. 

Soon  after  this  some  were  parol'd, 
Too  tedious  wholly  to  be  told; 
And  some  from  bondage  were  unstrung. 
Whose  awful  sufferings  can't  be  sung. 


360  DESCENT    OX    MIDDLESEX. 

The  dread  smallpox  to  £ome  tliey  gave, 
Nor  tried  at  all  their  lives  to  save, 
But  rather  sought  their  desolation, 
As  they  denied  'em  'noculatiou. 

To  the  smallpox  there  did  su(^eed, 
A  putrid  fever,  bad  indeed ; 
As  they  before  were  weak  and  spent. 
Soon  from  the  stage  of  life  they  went. 

For  wood  we  greatly  stood  in  need,  . 
For  which  we  earnestly  did  plead ; 
But  one  tenth  part  of  what  we  wanted 
Of  wood,  to  us  was  never  granted. 

The  boiling  kettles  which  we  had, 
Were  wanting  covers,  good  or  bad ; 
The  worst  of  rum  that  could  be  bought, 
For  a  great  price,  to  us  was  brought. 

For  bread  and  milk,  and  sugar,  too. 
We  had  to  pay  four  times  their  due ; 
While  cash  and  clothing  which  were  sent, 
Those  wretched  creatures  did  prevent. 


DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX.  361 

Some  time  it  was  in  dark  November 
But  just  the  day  I  can't  remember; 
Full  forty  of  us  were  confin'd 
In  a  small  room  both  damp  and  blind, 

Because  there  had  been  two  or  three, 
Who  were  not  of  our  company. 
Who  did  attempt  the  other  day. 
The  Tories  said,  to  get  away. 

In  eighteen  days  we  were  exchang'd, 
And  through  the  town  allowed  to  range ; 
Of  twenty-five  that  were  taken, 
But  just  nineteen  reach'd  home  again. 

Four  days  before  December's  gone. 
In  seventeen  hundred  eighty-one, 
I  hail'd  the  place  where  months  before. 
The  Tories  took  me  from  the  shore. 


^  Letter  from  Colonel  Upham,  Commandant  at  Lloyd's  Neck,  to 
Governor  Franklin  of  New  Jersey. 

^  The  reverend  Mather.  Moses  Mather,  D.  D.,  was  the  pastor  of 
the  church.  He  was  taken  prisoner  in  1779  by  a  gang  of  loyalists, 
and  carried  to  New  York.     At  this  time,   the   members  of  his  con- 

16 


362  DESCENT    ON    MIDDLESEX. 


gregation  were  taken  ont  of  the  church,  tied  two  and  two,  with  Dr. 
Mather  at  their  head.  Cunningham,  the  keeper  of  the  Provost  at 
New  York,  took  every  opportunity  to  insult  Dr.  Mather  during  hia 
imprisonment,  and  seemed  to  have  great  satisfaction  in  informing 
him  from. day  to  day,  "  that  he  would  soon  be  executed — very  prob- 
ably, on  the  morrow." 


%\t  §mtt 

1781. 

This  song,  to  the  tune  of  Yankee  Doodle,  commemorating  the 
campaign  of  Comwallis  in  America,  appeared  soon  after  his  surren- 
der.    The  author  is  unknown. 

THE  DANCE.' 

C0RNWALLI8  led  a  country  dance, 

The  like  was  never  seen,  sir, 
Much  retrograde  and  much  advance, 

And  all  with  General  Greene,  sir. 

They  rambled  up  and  rambled  down, 
Join'd  hands,  then  off  they  run,  sir, 

Our  General  Greene  to  Charlestown, 
The  earl  to  Wilmington,  sir. 


364  TH^    DANCE. 

Greene,  in  the  South,  then  danc'd  a  set, 
And  got  a  mighty  name,  sir, 

Cornwallis  jigg'd  with  young  Fayette, 
But  suffer'd  in  his  fame,  sir. 

Then  down  he  figur'd  to  the  shore, 

Most  like  a  lordly  dancer, 
And  on  his  courtly  honor  swore, 

He  would  no  more  advance,  sir. 

Quoth  he,  my  guards  are  weary  grown 
With  footing  country  dances, 

They  never  at  St.  James's  shone. 
At  capers,  kicks  or  prances. 

Though  men  so  gallant  ne'er  were  seen, 
While  sauntering  on  parade,  sir. 

Or  wriggling  o'er  the  park's  smooth  green, 
Or  at  a  masquerade,  sir. 

Yet  are  red  heels  and  long-lac'd  skirts, 
For  stumps  and  briars  meet,  sir  ? 

Or  stand  they  chance  with  hunting-shirts. 
Or  hardy  veteran  feet,  sir  ? 


THE    DANCE.  365 

Now  hous'd  in  York  he  challeng'd  all, 

At  minuet  or  all  'amande, 
And  lessons  for  a  courtly  ball, 

His  guards  by  day  and  night  conn'd. 

This  challenge  known,  full  soon  there  came, 

A  set  who  had  the  bon  ton, 
De  Grasse  and  Rochambeau,  whose  fame 

Fut  brillant  pour  un  long  terns. 

And  Washington,  Columbia's  son. 

Whom  easy  nature  taught,  sir. 
That  grace  which  can't  by  pains  be  won, 

Or  Plutus'  gold  be  bought,  sir. 

Now  hand  in  hand  they  circle  round. 

This  ever-dancing  peer,  sir  ; 
Their  gentle  movements,  soon  confound 

The  earl,  as  they  draw  near,  sir. 

His  music  soon  forgets  to  play — 

His  feet  can  no  more  move,  sir. 
And  all  his  bands  now  curse  the  day, 

They  jigged  to  our  shore,  sir. 


366  THE    DANCE. 

Now  Tories  all,  what  can  ye  say  ? 

Come — is  not  this  a  griper, 
That  while  your  hopes  are  danc'd  away, 

'Tis  you  must  pay  the  piper. 

^  The  Dance.  The  troops  under  Cornwallis  had  spread  desolation 
and  ruin  throughout  the  country  over  which  they  passed  on  their 
march  from  the  South.  Their  numbers  enabled  them  to  go  wherever 
they  pleased,  with  comparatively  little  danger,  and  their  great  hatred 
to  the  Yankees,  often  led  them  far  from  the  line  of  march,  to  the 
wanton  destruction  of  property  and  life.  The  defeat  and  capture  of 
such  an  army  produced  the  strongest  emotions  in  the  breasts  of  the 
Colonists,  and  their  villages,  in  their  houses  and  their  streets,  re- 
soimded  with  the  tokens  of  social  triumph,  exultation  and  joy. 


C0rKtoaUis  itirpBit^Ir, 


1781. 

Several  songs  were  composed  to  commemorate  the  surrender  of 
the  royal  army  at  Yorktown.  The  one  subjoined  was  published  a 
short  time  after  the  event,  adapted  to  the  air  "  Maggie  Lauder," 
which  was  at  that  time  a  great  favorite  in  both  armies. 

CORNWALLIS   BURGOYNED. 

When  British  troops  first  landed  here, 

With  Howe  commander  o'er  them, 
They  thought  they'd  make  us  quake  for  fear, 

And  carry  all  before  them ; 
With  thirty  thousand  men  or  more, 

And  she  without  assistance, 
America  must  needs  give  o'er, 

And  make  no.  more  resistance. 


368  CORNWALLIS    BURGOYNED. 

But  Washington,  her  glorious  son, 

Of  British  hosts  the  terror, 
Soon,  by  repeated  overthrows, 

Convinc'd  them  of  their  error ; 
Let  Princeton,  and  let  Trenton  tell, 

What  gallant  deeds  he's  done,  sir, 
And  Monmouth's  plains  where  hundreds  fell, 

And  thousands  more  have  run,  sir. 

Cornwallis,  too,'  when  he  approach'd 

Virginia's  old  dominion, 
Thought  he  would  soon  her  conqu'ror  be ; 

And  so  was  North's  opinion. 
From  State  to  State  with  rapid  stride, 

His  troops  had  mareh'd  before,  sir. 
Till  quite  elate  with  martial  pride, 

He  thought  all  dangers  o'er,  sir. 


But  our  allies,  to  his  surprise, 
The  Chesapeake  had  enter'd  ; 

And  now  too  late,  he  curs'd  his  fate. 
And  wish'd  he  ne'er  had  ventur'd. 


CORNWALLIS     BURGOFNED.  369 

For  Washington  no  sooner  knew 

The  visit  he  had  paid  her, 
Than  to  his  parent  State  he  flew, 

To  crush  the  bold  invader. 

When  he  sat  down  before  the  town, 

His  Lordship  soon  surrender'd  ;  ^ 
His  martial  pride  he  laid  aside, 

And  cas'd  the  British  standard;  ^ 
Gods !  how  this  stroke  will  North  provoke, 

And  all  his  thoughts  confuse,  sir ! 
And  how  the  Peers  will  hang  their  ears. 

When  first  they  hear  the  news,  sir. 

Be  peace,  the  glorious  end  of  war, 

By  this  event  efi'ected ;  * 
And  be  the  name  of  Washington, 

To  latest  times  respected ; 
Then  let  us  toast  America, 

And  France  in  union  with  her , 
And  may  Great  Britain  rue  the  day 

Her  hostile  bands  came  hither. 

'  Comwallis,  too.     Corawallis  was  a  distinguished   warrior,  intre- 
pid and  confident,  and  a  zealous  champion  of  his  tyrannical  master. 

16* 


370  CORNWALLI8    BURGOYNED. 

*'  Had  all  the  rebels  in  the  States  hut  one  neck,  his  Lordship  would 
glory  in  nothing  more  than  an  opportunity  of  severing  the  jugular 
vein." 

^  His  Lordship  soon  surrender' d.  The  siege  of  Yorktown  con- 
tinued thirteen  days,  when  Cornwallis  requested  a  suspension  of  hos- 
tilities, during  which  time  he  made  a  desperate  attempt  to  escape. 
On  the  morning  of  the  day  appointed  for  the  laying  down  of  arms, 
the  American  and  French  troops  were  draAvn  up  on  either  side  of 
the  road,  in  a  line  of  more  than  a  mile  in  length.  At  about  two 
o'clock  in  the  afternoon  the  captive  army  advanced  through  the  line, 
led  by  General  O'Harra,  who  Cornwallis  had  appointed  as  substitute, 
he  pretending  sickness.  O'Harra,  advancing  to  the  head  of  the 
lines,  approached  General  Washington,  and  taking  off  his  hat, 
apologized  for  the  non-appearance  of  Earl  Cornwallis.  With  his 
usual  dignity  and  politeness,  his  Excellency  pointed  to  General  Lin- 
coln for  directions ;  by  whom  the  British  army  was  conducted  to 
the  place  where  it  was  intended  they  should  lay  doAvn  their  arms. 
It  was  here,  when  they  came  to  the  last  act  of  the  drama,  that  the 
spirit  and  pride  of  the  British  soldier  was  put  to  the  severest  test, 
and  their  mortification  and  disappointment  could  not  be  concealed. 
The  subjoined  epigram  appeared  a  short  time  after  the  surrender : 

Tbe  Earl  Cornwallis,  who  ought  to  be  civil, 
,  Grows  gouty  and  sore,  and  sends  us  the  devil ; 
For  who  is  the  leader  on  us  he  doth  parry. 
But  Brigadier-general  and  tory  'OHarra. 

'  And  ca/d  the  British  standard.  The  terms  of  capitulation  were 
similar  to  those  granted  to  General  Lincoln,  at  Charleston,  the  pre- 
ceding year.  The  troops  marched  out  with  shouldered  arms,  colors 
cased,  and  drums  beating  a  British  march.  It  was  very  gratifying  to 
General  Lincoln  to  have  assigned  him  the  duty  of  giving  laws  to 
the  haughty  army,  which  a  few  months  before  had  obliged  him  to 
surrender,  and  of  reflecting  that  the  terms  which  were  imposed  on 
him,  were  adopted  as  a  basis  in  the  present  instance. 

*  By  this  event  effected.  This  event  was  looked  upon  as  the  closing 
Bcene  of  the  Qpntinental  war  in  America. 


^hj  ^utli  Cari)liim» 


1782. 

On  Thursday  night,  the  nineteenth  of  December,  at  10  o'clock, 
off  the  Delaware,  the  British  ships,  Quebec,  Diomede  and  Astrea, 
carrying  ninety-eight  guns,  fell  in  with  the  American  ship  South 
Carolina,  of  forty  guns,  having  under  convoy  a  ship,  brigantine  and 
a  schooner,  bound  out  from  Philadelphia.  The  South  Carolina  was 
chased  eighteen  hours,  when  she  fired  a  stern  chase  at  the  Diomede, 
which  was  returned  by  one  of  the  latter's  bow-guns.  After  a  inm- 
ning  fight  of  more  than  two  hours,  the  American  colors  were  struck 
to  the  British. 

THE  LETTER.^ 

My  dear  brother  Ned, 

We  are  knock'd  on  the  head ; 
No  more  let  America  boast ; 

We  may  all  go  to  bed, 

And  that's  enough  said, 
For  the  South  Carolina  we've  lost.' 


372  THE     LETTER. 

The  pride  of  our  eyes, 

I  swear  is  a  prize, 
You  never  will  see  her  again, 

Unless  thro'  surprise, 

You  are  brought  where  she  lies, 
A  prisoner  from  the  false  main. 

Oh  Lord  !  what  a  sight — 
I  was  struck  with  affright, 

When  the  Diomede's  shot  round  us  fell, 
I  feared  that  in  spite, 
They'd  have  slain  us  outright, 

And  sent  us  directly  to  h — 1. 

The  Quebec  did  fire. 

Or  I'm  a  curs'd  liar, 
And  the  Astrea  came  up  apace  ; 

We  could  not  retire, 

From  the  confounded  fire, 
They  all  were  so  eager  in  chase. 

The  Diomede's  shot 
Was  damnation  hot. 
She  was  several  times  in  a  blaze ; 


THE    LETTER.  < 

It  was  not  my  lot, 
To  go  then  to  pot, 
But  I  veow,  I  was  struck  with  amaze. 

And  Ned,  may  I  die. 

Or  be  pok'd  in  a  sty. 
If  ever  I  venture  again 

Where  bullets  do  fly, 

And  the  wounded  do  cry 
Tormented  with  anguish  and  pain. 

The  Hope,  I  can  tell, ' 

And  the  brig  Constance  fell, 
I  swear,  and  I  veow,  in  our  sight ; 

The  first  I  can  say, 

Was  taken  by  day. 
But  the  latter  was  taken  at  night. 

I  die  to  relate 

What  has  been  our  fate,* 
How  sadly  our  navies  are  shrunk ; 

The  pride  of  our  State, 

Begins  to  abate, 
For  the  branches  are  lopp'd  from  the  trunk. 


73 


374  THE    LETTER. 

The  Congress  must  bend, 

We  shall  fall  in  the  end, 
For  the  curs'd  British  sarpents  are  tough ; 

But,  I  think  as  jou  find, 

I  have  enough  penn'd 
Of  such  cursed,  such  vexatious  stuff. 

Yet  how  vexing  to  find, 

We  are  left  all  behind, 
That  by  sad  disappointment  we're  cross'd; 

Ah,  fortune  unkind ! 

Thou  afflicted'st  my  mind. 
When  the  South  Carolina  we  lost. 

Our  enemy  vile, 

Cunning  Digby  does  smile, 
Is  pleased  at  our  mischance ; 

He  useth  each  wile. 

Our  fleets  to  beguile. 
And  to  check  our  commerce  with  France. 

No  more  as  a  friend. 

Our  ships  to  defend, 

Of  South  Carolina  we  boast ; 


THE    LETTER.  375 


As  a  foe  in  the  end 
She  will  us  attend, 
For  the  South  Carolina  we've  lost 


^  The  Letter.  This  ballad  appeared  in  the  loyal  papers,  as  a  letter 
"  from  a  dejected  Jonathan,  a  prisoner  taken  in  the  South  Carolina, 
to  his  brother  Ned  at  Philadelphia." 

^  For  the,  South  Carolina  we've  lost.  She  was  bound  on  a  cruise 
off  Charleston,  South  Carolina,  and  was  taken  the  day  after  she 
sailed.  She  was  built  in  Holland  in  1778.  Her  keel  was  about  one 
hundred  and  sixty  feet  long,  and  as  strong  as  a  castle.  Captain 
Joiner  commanded  her  in  this  action.  The  Americans'  loss  in  killed 
and  wounded  was  fourteen,  and  that  of  the  British  very  slight. 
'*  Fifty  German  and  eight  British  soldiers  of  General  Burgoyne's 
army,  who  had  been  taken  out  of  jail  at  Philadelphia,  and  compelled 
on  board  the  Carolina,  rather  than  submit  to  be  sold  by  the  rebels, 
were  on  this  occasion  happily  released  from  a  service  so  obnoxious 
to  their  principles."     Loyal  prints. 

^  The  Hope,  I  can  tell.  The  ship  Hope  and  the  brig  Constance 
were  the  vessels  taken  in  company  with  the  South  Carolina.  The 
little  schooner  escaped  and  reached  Charleston  in  safety. 

*  What  has  been  our  fate.  A  few  days  after  the  action,  the  South 
Carolina  arrived  at  New  York  and  anchored  in  the  East  River.  The 
newspapers  of  that  city,  in  announcing  her  arrival,  say,  that  "  she 
was  to  call  at  Charleston  and  there  receive  Commodore  Gillon  on 
board,  but  being  imperfectly  coppered  by  the  rebels  at  Philadelphia,  it 
was  judged  expedient  to  alter  her  destination,  and  bring  her  round 
to  New  York  to  complete  her  sheathing,  only  thirteen  feet  of  which 
had  been  performed." 


®|aitIisgiWttg  f  pm 


1783. 

The  following  composition  was  originally  intended  to  be  snng  on 
the  Thanksgiving  Day,  appointed  in  consequence  of  the  peace  be- 
tween the  United  States  and  Great  Britain  in  1783,  but  was  not 
published  until  some  years  after  that  event.  It  is  a  fine  specimen  of 
the  "  patriotic  hymns  and  psalms  "  of  that  period. 

THANKSGIVING  HYMN. 

The  Lord  above,  in  tender  love, 

Hath  sav'd  us  from  our  foes ; 
Through  Washington  the  thing  is  done, 

The  war  is  at  a  close. 

America  has  won  the  day, 

Through  Washington,  our  chief; 

Come  let's  rejoice  with  heart  and  voice, 
And  bid  adieu  to  grief 


THANKSGIVING    HYMN.  377 

Now  we  have  peace,  and  may  increase 

In  number,  wealth,  and  arts  ; 
If  every  one,  like  Washington, 

"Will  strive  to  do  their  parts. 

Then  let's  agree,  since  we  are  free, 

All  needless  things  to  shun  ; 
And  lay  aside  all  pomp  and  pride, 

Like  our  great  Washington. 

Use  industry,  and  frugal  be, 

Like  Washington  the  brave  ; 
So  shall  we  see,  'twill  easy  be, 

Our  country  for  to  save, 

From  present  wars  and  future  foes, 

And  all  that  we  may  fear ; 
While  Washington,  the  great  brave  one, 

Shall  as  our  chief  appear. 

Industry  and  frugality. 

Will  all  our  taxes  pay ; 
In  virtuous  ways,  we'll  spend  our  days, 

And  for  our  rulers  pray.' 


378  THANKSGIVING    HYMN. 

The  Thirteen  States,  united  sets, 
In  Congress  simply  grand  ; 

The  Lord  himself  preserve  their  health, 
That  they  may  rule  the  land, 

Whilst  every  State,  without  its  mate. 

Doth  rule  itself  by  laws. 
Will  sovereign  be,  and  always  free ; 

To  grieve  there  is  no  cause. 

But  all  should  try,  both  low  and  high. 
Our  freedom  to  maintain ; 

Pray  G-od  to  bless  our  grand  Congress, 
And  cease  from  every  sin. 

Then  sure  am  T,  true  liberty 
Of  every  sort  will  thrive ; 

With  one  accord  we'll  praise  the  Lord, 
All  glory  to  Him  give. 

To  whom  all  praise  is  due  always, 

For  He  is  all  in  all ; 
George  Washington,  that  noble  one. 

On  His  great  name  doth  call. 


THANKSGIVING    HYMN.  379 

Our  Congress  too,  before  they  do, 

Acknowledge  Him  supreme ; 
Come  let  us  all  before  Him  fall, 

And  glorify  His  name. 

^  And  for  our  rulers  pray.  From  among  the  hymns  written  on 
the  return  of  peace,  we  select  the  following  unique  specimen,  from 
a  composition  by  OHver  Arnold,  the  author  of  the  parody  on  the 
"  Banks  of  the  Dee." 

"  Come,  let  us  shout  1  and  praise  the  Lordl 

What  hath  he  left  undone? 
Let's  shout  for  him,  and  sing  to  him, 

He  gave  us  Washington  I 
Let's  shout  to  him,  and  pray  to  him, 

And  pray  for  Washington  1 " 


1783. 

This  ballad,  by  Robert  Burns,  is  familiar  to  every  one.  Cham- 
bers, in  his  Life  and  Works  of  the  Poet,  says,  the  production  "is 
curious,  as  an  example  of  that  brief  direct  narration  in  which  the 
rustic  mind  usually  gives  its  version  of  the  most  complicated  politi- 
cal and  historical  transactions." 

A  FRAGMENT.^ 

When  G-uildford  good  our  pilot  stood, 

And  did  our  helm  thraw,  man, 
Ae  night,  at  tea,  began  a  plea, 

Within  America,  man ; 
Then  up  they  gat  the  maskin'-pat, 

And  in  the  sea  did  jaw,  man ; 
And  did  nae  less,  in  full  Congress, 

Than  quite  refuse  our  law,  man. 


A    FRAGMENT.  381 

Then  through  the  lakes  Montgomery  takes, 

I  wat  he  was  na  slaw,  man  ; 
Down  Lowrie's  burn  he  took  a  turn, 

And  Carleton  did  ca',  man ; 
But  yet,  what-reck,  he,  at  Quebec, 

Montgomery-like  did  fa',  man, 
Wi'  sword  in  hand,  before  his  band, 

Amang  his  en'mies  a',  man. 

Poor  Tammy  Gage,  within  a  cage, 

Was  kept  at  Boston  ha',  man ; 
Till  Willie  Howe  took  o'er  the  knowe 

For  Philadelphia,  man; 
Wi'  sword  and  gun  he  thought  a  sin 

Guid  Christian  blood  to  draw,  man : 
But  at  New  York,  wi'  knife  and  fork, 

Sir-loin  he  hacked  sma',  man. 

Burgoyne  gaed  up,  like  spur  and  whip, 
Till  Fraser  brave  did  fa',  man ; 

Then  lost  his  way,  ae  misty  day, 
In  Saratoga  shaw,  man. 


382  A    FRAGMENT. 

Cornwallis  fought  as  lang's  he  dought, 
And  did  the  buckskins  claw,  man 

But  Clinton's  glaive  frae  rust  to  save, 
He  hung  it  to  the  wa',  man. 


Then  Montague,  and  Guildford  too, 

Began  to  fear  a  fa',  man  : 
And  Sackville  dour,  wha  stood  the  stoure, 

The  German  Chief  to  thraw,  man ; 
For  Paddy  Burke,  like  ony  Turk, 

Nae  mercy  had  at  a',  man ; 
And  Charlie  Fox  threw  by  the  box, 

And  lows'd  his  tinkler  jaw,  man. 

Then  Kockingham  took  up  the  game, 

Till  death  did  on  him  ca',  man ; 
"When  Shelburne  meek  held  up  his  cheek, 

Conform  to  gospel  law,  man ; 
Saint  Stephen's  boys,  wi'  jarring  noise, 

They  did  his  measures  thraw,  man, 
For  North  and  Fox  united  stocks, 

And  bore  him  to  the  wa',  man. 


i 


A   FRAGMENT.  383 

Then  clubs  and  hearts  were  Charlie's  cartes, 

He  swept  the  stakes  awa',  man, 
Till  the  diamond's  ace,  of  Indian's  race. 

Led  him  a  sair  faux  pas,  man ; 
The  Saxon  lads,  wi'  loud  placads. 

On  Chatham's  boy  did  ca',  man ; 
And  Scotland  drew  her  pipe  and  blew, 

'  Up,  Willie,  waur  them  a',  man ! ' 

Behind  the  throne  then  Grenville's  gone, 

A  secret  word  or  twa,  man ; 
While  slee  Dundas  aroused  the  class. 

Be-north  the  Roman  wa',  man ; 
And  Chatham's  wraith,  in  heavenly  graith, 

(Inspired  Bardies  saw,  man) 
Wi'  kindling  eyes  cried,  '  Willie,  rise  ! 

Would  I  hae  fear'd  them  a',  man  ? ' 


But,  word  and  blow.  North,  Fox  and  Co., 
Gowff 'd  Willie  like  a  ba',  man. 

Till  Southron  raise,  and  coost  their  clase 
Behind  him  in  a  raw,  man ; 


384  A    FRAGMENT. 

And  Caledou  threw  by  the  drone, 
And  did  her  whittle  draw,  man  ; 

And  swoor  fu'  rude,  through  dirt  and  blood, 
To  make  it  guid  in  law,  man. 

*  A  Fragment.  This  ballad  was  adapted  to  the  tune  KiUiecrankie, 
a  Gaelic  air,  composed,  it  is  said,  by  the  pipe-major  of  the  old  High- 
land regiment,  known  to  the  world  by  the  title  of  "  The  XLII.  Regi- 
ment of  Royal  Highlanders,"  or  as  Cook,  the  celebrated  actor,  used 
to  style  it,  "  the  brave  forty-tuca" 

Burns,  at  the  time  he  wrote  these  verses,  says  Chambers,  was  in 
"  in  a  raw  and  unenlightened  state  as  a  politician."  In  a  letter  to 
the  Hon.  Henry  Erskine,  in  reference  to  this  ballad,  Bums  says,  "  I 
showed  the  enclosed  political  ballad  to  my  Lord  Glencaim,  to  have 
his  opinion  whether  I  should  publish  it ;  as  I  suspect  my  political 
tenets,  such  as  they  are,  may  be  rather  heretical  in  the  opinion  of 
some  of  my  best  friends.  I  have  a  few  first  principles  in  religion 
and  politics,  which,  I  believe,  I  would  not  easily  part  with ;  but  for 
all  the  etiquette  of,  by  whom,  in  what  manner,  &c.,  I  would  not 
have  a  dissocial  word  about  it  with  any  one  of  God's  creatures,  par- 
ticularly an  honored  patron  or  a  respected  friend.  His  lordship  seems 
to  think  the  piece  may  appear  in  print,  but  desired  me  to  send  you 
a  copy  for  your  suffrage." 


1783. 

The  author  of  these  verses,  Colonel  David  Humphreys,^  "the 
soldier-poet  of  the  revolution,"  was  bom  at  Derby,  Connecticut,  in 
the  year  1752,  and  graduated  at  Yale  College  in  1771. 

ON  DISBANDING  THE  ARMY.^ 

Ye  brave  Columbian  bands  !  a  long  farewell ! 
Well  have  ye  fought  for  freedom — nobly  done 
Your  martial  task — the  meed  immortal  won — 
And  Time's  last  records  shall  your  triumphs  tell. 

Once  friendship  made  their  cup  of  suflF'rings  sweet — 
The  dregs  how  bitter,  now  those  bands  must  part ! 
Ah  !  never,  never  more  on  earth  to  meet  ; 
Distill'd  from  gall  that  inundates  the  heart, 
What  tears  from  heroes  eyes  are  seen  to  start ! 
17 


886  ON    DISBANDING    THE    ARMY. 

Ye,  too,  farewell,  who  fell  in  fields  of  gore, 

And  chang'd  tempestuous  toil  for  rest  serene ; 

Soon  shall  we  join  you  on  the  peaceful  shore, 

(Though  gulfs  irremeable  roll  between), 

Thither  by  death-tides  borne,  as  ye  full  soon  have  been. 

^  Dmid  "Sumphreys.  Soon  after  Humphreys  graduated,  he  went 
to  reside  with  Colonel  Phillips,  of  Phillips  Manor,  New  York.  He 
joined  the  Continental  army,  and  in  1778  became  one  of  General 
Putnam's  aids,  with  the  rank  of  Major.  In  1780  he  was  promoted 
to  be  aide-de-camp  to  Washington,  with  the  rank  of  Colonel.  He 
continued  in  the  family  of  the  Commander-in-Chief  during  the 
war,  and  after  the  resignation  of  the  General,  accompanied  him  to 
Mount  Vernon.  For  his  valor  at  Yorktown,  Congress  honored  him 
with  a  sword.  On  the  appointment  of  Mr.  Jefferson,  as  ambassador 
to  France,  Col.  Humphreys  was  nominated  as  Secretary  to  the  Le- 
gation, and  for  the  first  time  left  his  native  country,  in  1784.  In 
1786,  he  was  a  member  of  the  Connecticut  Legislature,  and  about 
that  time  he,  Barlow,  and  Hopkins  wrote  the  Anarchiad.  In  ]  790, 
he  was  appointed  Minister  to  Portugal,  and  afterwards  Minister 
Plenipotentiary  to  Spain.  His  literary  attainments  were  consider- 
able. Besides  several  poems,  he  wrote  various  political  pamphlets, 
and  completed  a  life  of  General  Putnam,  which  is  included  in  a 
volume  of  his  works. 

^  On  disbanding  the  army.  It  will  be  difficult  for  any  person  who 
was  not  present  with  the  troops  at  the  conclusion  of  the  war,  to  form 
an  adequate  idea  of  the  affecting  circumstances  which  attended  the 
disbanding  of  the  army.     Note  by  the  author  of  the  sonnet. 


INDEX 


A  Ballad,  to  the  tune  of  "  Smile  Britannia,"  147. 

Adam's  Fall,  or  the  Trip  to  Cambridge,  1775,  99. 

Adams,  Hannah— Quotation  from,  134. 

Adams,  Samuel — Tory  opinions  of,  295. 

A  Fable— A  Song,  attributed  to  David  Matthews,  fii'st  Mayor  of  New  York, 

237,  240. 
Allen's  Biographical  Dictionary — a  quotation  from,  146. 
Alphabet  for  Little  Masters  and  Misses,  88. 
American  Army — swam  over  the  East  Eiver,  in  the  retreat  from  Long  Island, 

in  1776,  268. 
American  Torpedo— account  of,  216. 
An  Affair  of  Honor  between  General  Eobert  Howe  and  Christopher  Gadsden, 

226. 
An  Appeal,  289. 

Andre,  Major  John— Cow  Chace,  299 ;  Notice  of  the  literary  productions  of,  314. 
Anecdote  of  the  Earl  of  Dartmouth  and  an  American  in  London,  195. 
A  New  Ballad,  1779,  262. 
A  New  War  Song,  by  Sir  Peter  Parker,  135. 
A  Prophecy,  or  the  old  year  and  the  new,  1779,  247. 

Archer,  Henry— author  of  the  song  "Volunteer  Boys;  "  notices  of,  2S5, 288. 
Arnold,  Benedict— poetical  address  to,  17S0,  333. 
Arnold,  Oliver— Parody  on  the  "  Banks  of  the  Dee;"  notice  of;  anecdote  of 

82  ;  quotation  from,  379. 
A  Song,  written  by  a  Refugee,  on  reading  the  King's  speech,  253. 
Banks  of  the  Dee— origin  of  the  song,  78,  79;  Eobert  Burns'  remarks  on,  80; 

Oliver  Arnold's  Parody  on,  81. 
Barlow,  Joel — quotation  from,  95 ;  notice  of,  82. 


388  INDEX. 


Battle  of  the  Kegs,  209;  sung  in  Washington's  army,  210;  prose  accounts  of; 

both  whig  and  loyal,  214. 
Billings,  William,  first  native  writer  of  music  in  America ;  account  of,  241. 
Boston  Gazette— notice  of,  85 ;  Liberty  Song  published  in,  35. 
Boston,  Mass.— British  took  possession  of  in  1774,  21 ;  Stamp  Office  destroyed 

in,  20 ;  Clergy  and  selectmen  of,  parade  the  streets  after  a  crucifix,  291. 
Breed's  Hill— notice  of,  95 ;  Epigram  published  shortly  after  the  battle  of,  98. 
Britain— Lines  addressed  to,  163. 

British  Light  Infantiy,  a  Song,  204;  Address  of,  to  General  Washington,  224. 
Burgoyne,  John— Impromptu  on  the  departure  of,  from  England  for  America. 

108 ;  poetical  version  of  the  Proclamation  of,  167  ;  quotation  from,  175 ;  the 

fate  of,  185 ;  overthrow  of,  188, 191 ;  anecdote  concerning  the  surrender  of, 

194. 
Burke,  Edmund — quotation  from,  208. 
Burns,  Robert— A  Fragment  by,  380 ;  his  opinion  of  it,  384 ;  Kemarks  on  the 

song, "  Banks  of  the  Dee ;  "  a  quotation  from,  80. 
Bushnell,  David,  inventor  of  the  American  torpedo,  209;  notice  of  his  inven- 
tions, 21G. 
Bute,  Earl  of— a  l>oot,  the  emblem  of,  suspended  to  Liberty  Tree,  1765,  20 ; 

verses  on,  32. 
Burrowing  Yankees,  128;  newspaper  criticism  on,  129. 
Castle  Island,  notice  of,  54;  song  composed  at,  51. 
Champe,  Sergeant  John,  the  adventure  of,  322. 
Charleston,  S.  C. — Liberty  tree  consecrated  at,  21;  the  reduction  of  in  1780; 

song  about,  293. 
Charlestown,  Mass. — Liberty  tree  consecrated  at,  21 ;  tiSe  burning  of,  95. 
Chester,  a  Hymn— sung  by  the  New  England  soldiers  in  the  Southern  States, 

241. 
Cider  Tax— the  repeal  of,  27. 
Clinton,  Sir  Henry— Impromptu  on  the  departure  of,  for  America,  108;  at  the 

attack  on  Sullivan's  Island,  138. 
Clinton,  Sir  Henry — Invitation  to  the  Refugees,  a  song,  259. 
Colden,  Cadwallader— Address  to  the  New  York  Assembly,  1775,  74. 
Collinet  and  Phebe,  a  song,  112. 
Commons— Verses  to  the,  141. 

Concord —Account  of  the  battle  at;  Anecdote  o^  94;  Puns  upon  the  word,  93. 
Cornwallis,  Lord — the  campaign  of,  361 ;  anecdote  of,  369  ;  account  of  his  8'ir- 

render,  370  ;  Epigram  on,  370. 
Cow  Chaee,  a  song  commemorating  the  attack  of  General  Wayne  upon  Uio 

Refugees'  block-house,  in  1780,  299  ;  poetical  endorsement  on  the  original 

manuscript,  315. 


INDEX.  389 


Credulity— extract  from  a  letter  written  a  short  time  after  the  battle  of  Tren- 
tou,  162. 

Daiice,  the — commemorating  the  campaign  of  Lord  Cornwallis,  363. 

Dartmouth,  Ship— arrives  at  Boston  with  a  cargo  of  tea,  55. 

Dartmouth,  Earl  of,  anecdote  of,  195. 

Daughters  of  Liberty  hold  a  meeting  at  Boston,  50. 

Dearborn,  Benjamin,  notice  of — verses  composed  by,  117. 

De  Eetz,  Cardinal— notice  of,  35. 

D'Estaing,  Count— at  Ehode  Island,  231 ;  censured  for  the  conduct  of  the 
French  fleet,  1778,  285;  at  Savannah  in  1779,  269. 

Dickinson,  John — notice  of,  39. 

Dorchester  Heights— Americans  take  possession  of,  125. 

Dunmore,  Earl  of— notice  of,  69. 

Dutch  Song,  written  at  the  Hague,  1779,  281. 

Elliott,  Bernard— notice  of,  230. 

Epigrams — on  the  battle  of  Breed's  Hill,  93 :  on  the  Hessian  standards  taken  at 
Trenton,  152. 

Epilogue,  the— remarks  on,  220,  223. 

Erskine,  Sir  William— notice  of,  216. 

Etiquette,  the.— a  song,  265. 

Extempore,  published  in  1779, 264. 

Fish  and  Tea— a  new  song  to  an  old  tune,  106. 

Franklin,  "William— Address  to  the  Legislature  of  New  Jersey,  1T75,  74. 

Freeman's  Journal — notice  of,  140;  quotations  from,  125, 129,  134. 

French,  Dr.,  of  Eocklngham,  Vermont,  notice  of,  288. 

French,  Jonathan,  of  Andover,  Mass.,  notice  of,  288. 

Frene.au,  Philip— notice  of,  249. 

Gadsden,  Christopher— an  affair  of  honor  with  General  Eobert  Howe,  226; 
notice  of,  230. 

Gage,  Thomas— appointed  governor  of  Massachusetts ;  issues  a  proclamaticjn  ; 
poetical  version  of  it,  65;  notice  of,  68. 

Garrick,  David,  composer  of  the  song  "  Hearts  of  Oak,''  47. 

George  the  Third's  Soliloquy,  by  Philip  Freneau,  1779,  249. 

Gerard  M.— Account  of  his  reception  by  the  Continental  Congress,  in  1778,  as 
Minister  from  France,  234— Eivington's  remarks  upon  the  ceremony,  235. 

Glass— The  people  of  Boston  resolve  not  to  import,  43. 

Greene,  General,  at  Ehode  Island  in  1773,  235. 

Grenville,  George— quotation  from  his  speech  ;  acquires  the  nickname  of  "  Gen- 
tle Shepherd,"  27,  28 ;  verses  on,  32. 

Hale,  Nathan— account  of  the  capture  and  death  of,  130 ;  notice  of,  138 ;  quota- 
tion in  reference  to,  134. 


390  INDEX. 


Hancock  John — in  command  of  the  Massachusetts  militia  at  Ehode  Island 

1773,  235 ;  tory  opinions  of  him,  295. 
"  Hearts  of  Oak  '"—origin  of,  47  ;  The  American,  103. 
Henry,  Patrick — quotation  from,  68. 

Hessian  standards  taken  at  Trenton — account  of  epigram  on,  152. 
Hessians — quotation  from  the  Freeman's  Journal,  in  reference  to  their  expert 

use  of  fire-arms,  125. 
Hewlings,  J.  W.— notice  of,  103. 
Holt's  Gazette — lines  quoted  from,  17. 
Hopkinson,  Francis — notice  of,  167. 
Howe,  Eobert — an  affair  of  honor,  with  Christopher  Gadsden,  226 ;  biographical 

notice  of,  230. 
Howe,  Sir  'William— impromptu  on  the  departure  of,  for  America,  lOS;  at 

Philadelphia,  216. 
Humphreys,  David— quotation  from,  199;  sonnet  by,  355;  biographical  notice 

of,  3S6. 
Hunting  Shirts  and  Eifle  Guns — description  of,  199. 
Hutchinson,  Thomas— Chief  Justice  of  Massachusetts ;  notice  of,  20 ;  recalled 

to  England,  65. 
Independence— a  song  on,  by  J.  M.  Sewall,  1776, 144. 
Iris,  the — quotation  from,  188. 
Irishman's  Epistle  to  the  troops  in  Boston,  1775,  92. 

Jasper,  Sergeant  William— bravery  of,  at  the  defence  of  Sullivan's  Island,  188. 
Jerseys,  the — a  parody  on  the  "  Watery  God,"  136. 
Killiecrankie — the  origin  of  the  tune,  384. 
King's  Mountain— the  battle  of,  335 ;  situation  of,  337. 
Ladies,  the — A  poetical  appeal  to  the,  48. 
Lafayette,  General,  at  Ehode  Island,  in  1778,  235. 
Lee,  Arthur— biographical  notice  of,  40. 
Lee,  Charles— biographical  notice  of,  72 ;  Mrs,  Mercy  Warren's  opinion  of,  and 

Paine's  remarks  about,  73 ;  taken  prisoner,  159. 
Lee,  Ezra— notice  of  his  experiment  with  the  American  Torpedo ;  biographical 

notice  of,  217. 
Letter  from  a  dejected  Jonathan,  a  prisoner  taken  in  the  ship  South  Carolina, 

to  his  brother  Ned,  at  Philadelphia,  371. 
Lexington,  Mass.— Liberty  Tree  at,  21 ;  battle  of,  94. 
Liberty  Song,  by  John  Dickinson  and  Arthur  Lee,  1768,  36 ;  sung  in  the  streets 

of  Boston,  40 ;  a  parod}^  on,  41. 
Liberty  Tree— a  song,  IS ;  description  of  the  one  consecrated  at  Boston,  20 ; 

destroyed  in  1774,  21 ;  verses  suspended  on,  in  1766,  32. 


INDEX.  391 


Liberty  trees,  consecrated  at  Charlestown,  Lexington,  and  Eoxbury,  Mass. ; 

also  in  Charleston,  S.  C,  Newport  and  Providence,  E.  L,  21. 
Liberty's  Call— authorship  of,  S-3. 
Lincoln,  General,  at  Savannah,  in  1777,  269. 
Livingston,  H.  B.— at  Rhode  Island  in  177S,  235. 
Loring,  Joshua— notice  of,  216. 

Loyal  York — a  song,  attributed  to  James  Eivington,  74. 
Macaulay,  T.  B.— quotation  from,  31. 
Maitland,  Colonel— notice  of,  273. 

Maryland  Resolves— song  on  the,  70 ;  notice  of,  70  ;  anecdote  of,  72. 
Mason,  John— notice  of,    83,  86 ;    his    advertisement   in    the  Pennsylvania 

Packet,  87. 
Massacre  of  the  Fifth  of  March  in  Boston— an  account  of,  52 ;  notice  of  a  pic- 
ture of  the  scene,  by  Paul  Eevere,  53 ;  verses  upon,  54. 
Mather,  Moses,  D.D. ;  notice  of,  361. 

Mathews  David,  Mayor  of  New  York — a  song  written  by,  240. 
Middlesex,  county  of,  in  Virginia — loyalty  of  many  of  the  inhabitants  of; 

verses  on,  composed  by  a  lady  of  Pennsylvania,  68. 
Middlesex,  the  descent  on — account  of,  350. 
Ministry,  the — degradation  of,  in  the  Colonies,  31. 
Moultrie,  William- anecdote  of ;  quotation  from  his  address  to  the  troops,  the 

day  after  Sir  Peter  Parker's  attack  on  Sullivan's  Island,  133. 
Murray  John,  Earl  of  Dunmore— notice  of,  69. 
New  Jersey  Journal — quotations  from,  138, 185. 
New  Jersey— lines  addressed  to  the  women  of,  296. 
Newport,  R.  I.— Liberty  Tree  consecrated  at,  21. 
New  Year's  Day,  1781,  342. 

Nortr.ampton,  Virginia -celebration  of  the  repeal  of  the  Stamp  Act  at,  22. 
North  Campaign,  176. 
North's  Eecantation,  a  song,  244. 
Off  from  Boston,  or  the  Military  Song,  122. 
O'Hara,  General,  appointed  by  Cornwallis  to  surrender  to  the  Americans ; 

Epigram  on  it,  870. 
Oliver,  Andrew— stamp  distributor  in  1765 ;  effigy  of,  suspended  to  Liberty 

tree,  20 ;  resigns  his  office,  21. 
Otis,  James— quotation  from  Tudor's  Life  of,  21,  35. 
Our  Women— lines  addressed    to    the   women  of   Pennsylvania    and    New 

Jersey,  296. 
Paine,  Thomas— editor  of  the  Pennsylvania  Magazine ;  author  of  Liberty  Tree 

Song,  18. 
Parker.  Sir  Peter— a  song  attributed  to,  135 ;  account  of  his  attack  on  Sullivan's 


392  INDEX. 

Island,  in  1776 — wounded  in  the  action ;  epigram  on ;  sails  for  New  York. 

137. 
Parody  Parodized,  or  the  Massachusetts  Liberty  Song,  44 
Patriot  Dinner— description  of,  102. 
Paulding,  John,  a  ballad,  316. 
Pennsylvania  Ledger — song  published  in,  196. 
Pennsylvania,  lines  addressed  to  the  women  of,  296. 
Pennsylvania  Magazine  ;  notice  of  13. 
Pennsylvania  Packet— quotation  from,  288. 
Pennsylvania  Song,  90. 
Pennsylvania — verses  by  a  lady  of,  63. 
Pigot,  Sir  Robert,  at  Ehode  Island,  in  1778,  235. 
Pinckney,  Charles  C— notice  of,  230. 
Pope's  Second  Pastoral, — a  parody  on,  27. 
Prayer  for  the  Times,  1776,  126. 
Present  Age,  The,  1779,  255. 

Preston,  J.  T.    Account  of  the  battle  of  King's  Mountain,  337. 
Prevost,  General — notice  of,  273. 
Providence,  R.  I.— Liberty  tree  consecrated  at,  21. 
Pulaski,  Count— biographical  notice  of,  273;  he  cuts  olTthe  head  of  an  "honest 

member  "  of  the  Continental  Congress,  292. 
Retrospect,  an  anthem  from  sundry  Scriptures,  24-3. 
Revere,  Paul — notice  of  his  representation  of  the  Boston  massacre,  53. 
Rivington,  James— notice  of,  222;  remarks  of,  on  the  reception  of  M.Gerard, 

the   French  ambassador,  by  the  Continental  Congress,  235;    quotations 

from,  291,  292. 
Rogers,  Jeremiah  Dummer— notice  of,  16. 
Eosbury,  Mass. — Liberty  tree  consecrated  at,  21. 
St  John  (Sention),  Peter— notices  of,  1, 176,  351. 
St  Leger— pronunciation  of,  134. 
Sandwich,  Lord — called  "  Jemmy  Twitcher,'"  81. 
Saratoga  Song,  176. 

Savannah— a  new  song  about,  275;  account  of  the  siege  of,  273,  274. 
Sears,  Isaac — notice  of,  77. 
Sewall,  J.  M  — biographical  notice  of,  146. 
Shenstone's  Lyrics— quotation  from,  SO. 
"  Singing  Ma-ster's  Assistant  '"—quotation  from,  242,  24-5. 
Smyth,  Captain,  of  the  Queen's  Rangers — a  poet  of  the  revolution,  196. 
Song  for  the  Red  Coats,  176. 
Sonnet  on  disbanding  the  army,  885. 
South  Carolina,  the  ship— capture  of,  by  the  British,  in  1732,  371. 


INDEX.  393 


Stamp  Act — arrival  of  the  news  of  the  passage  of,  16  ;  repealed,  22. 

Stamp  Office  destroyed  at  Boston,  20. 

Sullivan,  General— a  song  sung  before,  at  Portsmouth,  N.  H.,  after  the  battle  of 

Trenton,  165;  at  Rhode  Island,  231. 
Sulli\an's  Island— its  situation ;  account  of  attack  upon,  137. 
Tar  and  feathers,  the  application  of,  to  refractory  loyalists,  202. 
Taxation  of  America,  1765,  1. 
Tea— proceedings  relative  to  the  importation  of,  55 ;  people  of  Boston  resolve 

not  to  Import,  4S ;  destroyed  at  Boston,  56  ;  song  about  its  destruction,  56 ; 

anecdote  relating  to  the  destruction  of,  5S ;    Yirginia  Banishing,  i  9 ;  a 

"blasted  herb,  "  62 ;  anecdote  of  the  use  of,  61. 
Tea-Table,  a  lady's  adieu  to  her,  5S. 

Thacher's  Military  Journal— quotations  from,  73,  195,  209,  217. 
Thanksgiving  Hymn,  1783,  376, 
Tlie  Blasted  Herb,  62. 
The  Gamester,  a  new  song,  191. 

The  Gentle  Shepherd,  27;  nickname  of  George  Grenville,  28. 
The  Halcyon  Days  of  Old  England,  a  song,  201  ;  attributed  to  Arthur  Lee,  202. 
The  Heads,  or  the  year  1776,  153. 

The  Old  Man's  Song  on  the  public  spirit  of  the  women,  206. 
The  Old  "Woman  taught  Wisdom,  or  the  world  turned  upside  down,  33. 
The  Prophetic  Egg — account  of;  lines  upon,  160. 
The  Eebels,  a  song,  by  Capt.  Smyth,  of  the  Queen's  Rangers,  196. 
The  Recess,  a  song,  278 ;  criticism  on,  2S0. 
The  Soldier  at  Home,  a  song,  347. 

The  Times,  a  song,  1776, 109;  additional  stanza,  published  in  1777,  111. 
Trenton,  Battle  of,  150. 
Tudor's  Life  of  Otis— quotation  from,  21. 
Twitcher,  Jemmy — nickname  of  Lord  Sandwich,  31. 
Upham,  Colonel— quotation  from  a  letter  from,  to  Governor  Franklin,  of  New 

Jersey,  350. 
Verses,  copied  from  a  diary  kept  during  the  Revolution,  208. 
Verses,  suspended  on  Liberty  tree,  in  1766,  32. 

Virginia— the  people  of.  resist  the  acts  of  Parliament,  68;  a  specimen  of  "  cow- 
ardice '"  from,  143. 
Virginia  Gazette— quotation  from,  94. 
Volunteer  Boys,  a  song — origin  of,  2S5. 
War  Song  printed  at  Portsmouth,  N.  H.,  in  1776,  115. 
Washington,  George— appointed  commander-in-chief  of  the  troops  raised  for 

the  defence  of  the  United  Colonies ;  joins  the  army  at  Cambridge,  1775  ; 


17^ 


394 


INDEX. 


loyal  account  of  his  journey  ;  quotation  from  his  address  to  the  army,  102; 

marches  into  Boston,  1776,  125. 
Wayne,  General — account  of  his  attack  on  the  refugees'  block -house,  1780,  314, 
Weare  Meshech— notice  of;  62. 
Women  of  1776 — anecdote  of  the,  114. 
Yankees,  Burrowing,  a  song,  128. 


